UK mobile networks unite on apps billing
The four UK mobile networks are to jointly roll-out direct operator billing, in an effort to make it easier for subscribers to pay for apps and other online goods.
EE, O2, Vodafone and 3 UK are to share a billing platform provided by MACH, which will act as an intermediary – meaning that developers will not need to set up individual agreements with the UK operators.
The MACH Direct Billing Gateway includes support for Everything Everywhere, Vodafone and 3’s Payforit Version 4 scheme – and O2’s Charge to Mobile platform.
“We believe this slick and easy payment method backed with the security of the UK wide mobile payments scheme, Payforit, will be the future for apps payments and will overtake the credit card or voucher payment methods that are hostile to a small screen,” said Rory Maguire, head of payment services at 3.
Operator billing is seen as being beneficial to consumers as it can speed up the transaction process and does not require the use of credit cards or other payment methods.
For merchants and developers, the platform will also offer real-time charging, flexible pricing points and direct refund capabilities. MACH said that in-app billing capabilities will be introduced on the platform soon.
