Gemplus has obtained technology level three approval from Visa International for its GemXpresso 211 - V2 card. The French card manufacturer claims this to be the first smart card supporting Java Card 2.1 and Open Platform 2.0 to achieve the top security mark.
GemXpresso 211 - V2, a smart card platform based on Philips Semiconductors P8WE5032, is the second Gemplus Open Platform card approved by Visa. The card supports Visa-approved applications, such as Visa Smart Debit/Credit (VSDC), and Visa Cash, as well as proprietary bank applications.
In January 2000, the GemXpresso 211 V1' received the first French Common Criteria certification for a Java Card and Visa Open Platform card. In May 2000, this became the first Open Platform V2.0 card approved by Visa International.