Currently, the service is being piloted with outdoor retail specialist REI (Recreational Equipment, Inc.). The app downloads a virtual dual-branded credit card to user mobiles that operates like a store card for in-store and online purchases. The app additionally provides access to account management features such as balance information and recent transactions.

Dominic Venturo, chief innovation officer for US Bank's payment services division, says: "The new US Bank Card app provides our existing credit card partners, such as REI, the opportunity to enhance their relationship with their customers by moving the card-opening process from the checkout lane to the front of the store, using mobile technology."

Venturo says the facility will be introduced to other retail partners later this year and will be made available for Android phones "in the near future".