Malauzai Software, a provider of mobile and Internet banking SmartApps for community financial institutions, announces that five community banks are launching SmartwearApps for the Apple Watch.
These early adopters include:
• Ameriana Bank in New Castle, Ind.
• BankMobile
• Customers Bank in Wyomissing, Penn.
• First United Bank in Dimmit, Texas
• Happy State Bank in Happy, Texas
Mobile banking users at banks with a SmartwearApp who purchase an Apple Watch will be able to check balances, view transaction history for all available accounts and access a branch locator, providing users with easy views of their most relevant banking information. The SmartwearApp is available in English and Spanish and provides banks with a screen for advertising and educational alerts.
Matthew Smith, vice president of e-Banking Services at Happy State Bank, said, “Our customers want to know that their community bank is being innovative and responsive to their demands. The Apple Watch app is another way to deliver the Happy experience and provide account holders a variety of ways to interact with us. We are confident that customers will be happy to know Happy State is always thinking of better ways to serve their financial needs.”
Malauzai is currently working with eight community banks and credit unions that will have an Apple Watch app live on April 24 when the device is launched. Current Malauzai usage data indicates that 77 percent of active mobile banking users stay registered on a mobile device. The company believes the engagement level will be significantly higher for the watch in its initial phase. More about the Apple Watch development journey, including videos and images of the apps, can be found on the Malauzai website: http://malauzai.com/wp/?page_id=2308.
“We are certain that watch banking will be one of the ‘killer apps’ when the Apple Watch launches. That’s why it’s important for community banks to be among the early adopters of this type of innovation,” said Robb Gaynor, chief product officer of Malauzai. “These banks are true leaders and are dedicated to providing their customers with the latest mobile features, ensuring that community institutions are consistently meeting, and exceeding, the technology offerings of larger competitors. Developing for the watch has been a fascinating experience and our clients have proven to be dedicated partners throughout this process.”
Pre-orders for the Apple Watch begin April 10, with the official launch set for April 24. It will be available in various models, ranging in price from $349 for the entry level sport model, to $17,000 for the 18K gold edition.