KaiOS, known for its mobile operating system that enables internet access on affordable devices, has announced a strategic partnership with Mastercard. This collaboration aims to introduce comprehensive digital payment solutions, starting in Cote d’Ivoire and Nigeria, to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Many SMEs in developing markets face challenges in adopting digital payment systems. Through this partnership, KaiOS and Mastercard will empower millions of SMEs worldwide to accept digital payments using low-cost KaiOS devices. Initially, businesses will be able to use Mastercard QR Pay by Link for transactions, with plans to introduce Tap & Go contactless technology soon.
Business owners can register for this service directly on their KaiOS-powered phones. By entering their credentials and completing authentication with a one-time password, they can access various digital payment options immediately.
Sebastien Codeville, CEO of KaiOS Technologies, stated, “Integrating Mastercard’s secure payment technology with KaiOS internet phones opens new doors for small businesses, transforming an affordable consumer device into a significant business tool and lowering barriers to modern commerce.”
The focus of the rollout will be on African markets, with collaborations that include Touch and Pay Technologies (TAP) from Nigeria and Wizzit in South Africa, enhancing the service’s reach to local merchants.
Olamide Afolabi, CEO of TAP, commented on the integration, noting that it makes digital payment solutions and financial services accessible to millions with feature phones. Dirk Bruynse, COO of Wizzit, highlighted the partnership’s potential to scale innovative payment solutions tailored to businesses of all sizes.
KaiOS continues to expand its ecosystem by working with leading carriers, network operators, and mobile manufacturers in emerging markets, and plans to involve banks, payment facilitators, and fintechs in its future expansion.
