Absa refreshes SA’s largest Automated Teller Machine network and redefines self-service banking

New user interfaces and exciting features set to alter the concept of self-service banking

In order to provide its customers with a completely new Automated Teller Machine (ATM) and self-service kiosk experience, Absa today announced a series of innovations including a South African first that sees the ATM evolving from simply being a cash dispenser to a comprehensive digital banking tool which now offers a richer array of functionalities.

The new ATM interfaces feature fresh designs and helpful animations, more intuitive screen navigation, faster transactions, anti-skimming security enhancements, video-based information messages and a reduced risk of ATMs going offline.

“Our range of innovations are expected to reduce the length of queues in branches, particularly at month end, thereby making access to a range of banking options more convenient for our customers,” says Christo Vrey, Managing Executive of Absa Digital Channels.

He adds: “Annually, over R200 billion is moved via our ATM network, through 500 million transactions. With nearly 6 000-Absa owned devices and approximately 3 000 Absa-supported ones, clearly this is one of our most fundamental customer touch-points.

“We are now in the exciting phase of rolling out a brand new ATM experience across the country.”

At Absa self-service kiosks, customers will be able to request bank statements that feature an electronic stamp. This will soon be widely accepted by service providers as an alternative to normal bank statements.

“This patented innovation, known as eStamp, is a South African first,” emphasises Vrey.

Additionally, customers will soon be able to make use of a new service known as Scan ‘n Pay at Absa’s cash accepting ATMs. This functionality allows Absa and non-Absa customers to conveniently scan bar-coded invoices from a number of utilities companies and other large corporates - and to instantly pay from an Absa account or by inserting cash into the device!

Next year, says Vrey, Absa customers will also be able to “give something back” by making quick donations to a selection of charitable organisations.

Over the next three years, the above-mentioned enhancements will be complemented by the rollout of new ATM and kiosk casings (the outward appearance of the devices) as well as the replacement of some of Absa’s older devices.

“Looking ahead, it is worth noting that a series of other innovations are in the pipeline,” concludes Vrey.