Fiserv launches 'super ATM' with biometric palm-vein reader

Fiserv Inc., a global provider of payments and financial services technology solutions, has launched a souped up ATM, which it has dubbed "Interactive Branch Kiosk." 

The self-service device is like a "super ATM," the company said on its website. It can perform cash and check transactions in addition to credit card applications, loans and other advanced transactions that typically can only be done at the teller line. The machine also integrates with the company's Verifast palm vein identification solution to provide the ease and security of biometric authentication, according to a company press release.

"Offering a comprehensive self-service option saves our members time, and the integration of Verifast for biometric authentication gives members the peace of mind that only they can access their accounts," Andy Joneson, VP of technology at Members Cooperative Credit Union, one of the first financial institutions to implement Interactive Branch Kiosk, said in a company release. 

Although the kiosk is integrated with Verifast, it also can accommodate a range of authentication capabilities, including card/PIN and user ID/password. With recycling capabilities and high capacity note acceptors, the device minimizes the need for tellers to service the machine and creates greater efficiencies for the branch, Fiserv said. 

"Interactive Branch Kiosk can automate a significant number of transactions that take place within a branch," Shawn Holtzclaw, general manager and senior vice president, fraud, risk, ECM and financial Solutions at Fiserv, said in the release. "Consumers are empowered to manage their interactions at their pace, and branch staff are free to focus on advisory roles and more complex tasks."

According to Fiserv, the kiosk hardware is manufactured by Hyosung and can integrate directly with a bank or credit union's core account processing platform and card services network. Core integration means every account can be accessed from the kiosk, and users have the same access to just-deposited funds as they would through the teller line. Core integration also means kiosk transactions are not dependent on video or remote tellers to provide self-service banking capabilities.