Hdfc Bank Kicks Off Mobile Banking

HDFC Bank on Wednesday announced the launch of wireless access protocol (WAP)-enabled mobile service in association with Orange.

The bank is also gearing up to launch WAP-enabled service for e-broking. "The bank is planning to launch its e-broking services by July. Customers will be given the option to execute buy and sell through the WAP-enabled service," said Neeraj Swaroop, country head-marketing and retail assets at HDFC Bank.

The bank has started accepting registration for the WAP-based mobile banking service wherein an individual having an account with HDFC Bank, WAP-enabled mobile phone and Orange services can avail of this facility. Customers can pay MTNL, BSES, BPL and BEST bills through the service. The software solution has been provided by i-flex solutions, a subsidiary of Citibank.

On registration with HDFC Bank, customers will be provided a pass word and, subsequently, they can make clear their bills.

"The service is aimed at providing value addition to customers and, thus, it is free of cost," said Swaroop. "Moreover, since the tie-up is with Orange, HDFC Bank customers will not have to use their air time while executing a command on the WAP-enabled service," he said.

"Further, HDFC Bank has decided to provide customers access to their demat accounts through WAP and Internet banking. Both will be launched simultaneously within the next 15 days," said Swaroop. Meanwhile, the bank is in the process of signing strategic alliances with all the mobile companies in the country to provide their customers mobile banking service. Already, the bank has a tie up with Orange, BPL, Airtel, Skycell and Essar Telecom.