Tencent integrates palm payment systems into Chinese public sector

This new tech has now been introduced to Beijing’s Metro, which allows commuters to simply wave their palms over a scanner to pay for rides. The scanner detects the user’s unique palm print and hand structure which then charges a connected payment device from their WeChat account.

The palm-recognition technology was developed by Tencent through its WeChat Pay system and officially launched on 21^st May. The technology utilises non-contact recognition of both the surface palm structure alongside the structure of veins in the hand.

To opt-in to the payment method, users will need to enter their palm prints on official registration machines that have been installed at various metro stations across Beijing. These machines use infrared and traditional cameras to detect and store the palm face as well as the veins under the skin which are unique to each individual.

The service is designed to be friendly to the elderly and those with physical limitations, as well as offering a new convenient option for payment that doesn’t rely on a physical object. It also comes at a time following a global pandemic, which affected China deeply – having a truly contactless payment method like this works to eliminate concerns over contamination.

How does it work?

Despite being named a ‘palm payment’ system, the real magic happens inside the hand with these contactless payment methods utilising palm-vein recognition technology. Whilst the unique pattern of an individual's palm is an additional factor that helps with identification, the system primarily uses the unique vein structure of an individual's hand.

Palm enrolment is required to use palm payment systems, with users being required to register their palm vein patterns in the system. This scan uses a combination of infrared cameras to peer into the hand for the vein structures, and traditional palm scanning devices for the palm structure scan. These scans are then usually converted into a mathematical template with is used to identify and authenticate payments.

This template is a well-guarded secret being the key part of the technology that enables it to function. However, what we do know is that it uses a complex series of algorithms to meticulously sort the input data into a usable template. A payment method can then be attached to this unique identification template.

From here all a user needs to do is present their palm at a Point Of Sale (POS) Terminal which utilises the same technology used to make the initial palm vein scan. Depending on the context of the transaction additional verification, like a pin, may be required – but for this metro use-case, a swift transaction will then take place.

A mixed reception

However, while this all sounds excellent, it has come with a bit of a mixed reception from users and onlookers. Many have commended the benefits such a system brings, such as ease of use, general convenience, and a truly contactless payment method that is accessible to all. However, so too have people noted the security concerns over such a payment method – as well as privacy concerns.

Similar to other identification methods, like retinal scans, this data of your own person is valuable information that could have considerable negative implications if misused or mishandled. In response to these concerns, the Beijing Municipal Commission of Transport said: “A high level of data encryption technology is used to protect user information.” Could this be the next form of contactless payment as we move forward in an ever-evolving world?