The days of searching for a lost plastic card are fading away. The newest advancement in payment technology, WeChat's Palm Scan Payments, allows users to make payments and access services with a simple wave of the hand. This pioneering system from WeChat offers remarkable convenience and security for everyday life.

Why Choose Palm Payments?

We rely on various cards for credit, transport, and access to offices and gyms. Forgetting a card or dealing with a dead phone can cause significant inconvenience. Tencent has addressed these issues with the Palm Scan Payments system, facilitating a smoother daily routine. While the technology isn't entirely new, its extensive application in everyday situations is a breakthrough.

Overcoming New Challenges

Despite the use of facial recognition technology was widespread, developing touchless palm technology faced unseen challenges. To ensure accuracy, new hardware and software were created to recognize palms under different lighting conditions and positions. This included a new camera and a two-step process identifying palm lines and veins for precise readings.

Palm scanning offers several advantages over facial recognition, such as distinguishing between twins and it's easy-to-use for people of different heights and abilities.

Prioritizing Security and Privacy

Security and privacy have been essential to the system from the start. Tencent has invested a great deal in ensuring end-to-end security, covering the entire process from image capture to storage according to stringent security standards. Professional security teams continuously put effort to identify and address potential issues.

User preferences are also designed with respect. Biometric information is collected only with user authorization, and users can deactivate the biometric function at any time, maintaining control over their privacy. 

A Breakthrough Debut

In May 2023, WeChat's Palm Scan Payments launched in China, allowing payments via palm recognition on Beijing's airport express train line and at Shenzhen University. By September, the service expanded to over 1,500 7-Eleven stores in Guangdong and power bank rental stations in Shenzhen, proving its utility in various sectors.

How It Works

The service officially launched in 7-Eleven stores in Guangdong on September 5th, 2023. Users activated the service by aligning their palm with the sensor and scanning a QR code to register on their phones. Once registered, users can complete the payments with a simple palm scan, with instant notifications sent to their phones.

For power bank rentals, users scanned their palm on the station's screen, link it to their account, and confirm the rental. Future transactions will require only a quick palm scan, streamlining the process.

Benefits Across Society

The Palm Scan Payments system offers numerous benefits:

• Convenience and Efficiency: Eliminates the need for cards and passwords, saving time and effort.

• Enhanced Security: Unique palm prints reduce the risk of identity theft and fraud.

• Health Safety: Touchless interactions decrease germ spread.

• Accessibility: User-friendly for people of all ages and abilities.

• Environmental Impact: Reduces plastic and paper use, lowering the carbon footprint.

Expanding Beyond Pilot Phase

Currently in its trial phase, the technology of palm scan payment is being improved regarding on user feedback. Their response were positive. Based on that, the team will continue to enhance the service for user safety and comfort. The plans are underway to expand Palm Scan Payments to more 7-Eleven stores across China. WeChat Pay remains dedicated to innovating and extending the platform, providing digital solutions tailored to industry needs for a more convenient and efficient daily life.