Host Card Emulation (HCE) is a cloud-based approach which enables NFC transactions to take  place without using a mobile device's hardware for storing payment credentials or needing to replace the SIM card, allowing for faster and more flexible implementations.

The HCE-based payment option comes as a new addition to Cellum's well-established wallet platform that leading brands around the world have been using for years. The company developed the world’s first MasterCard-branded mobile wallet in 2011, and has since partnered with other leading brands for similar services, including mobile carrier Telenor in Thailand and Hungary, and smartphone manufacturer Evercoss in Indonesia, among others.

Cellum R&D director Zoltán Ács said: “Until recently, Cellum focused on remote payments, though the company is no stranger to NFC, as it has had a number of successful implementations based on the technology in the past. However, back then the market wasn’t ready for it.

“Now the tide has turned and we are committed to meeting the growing demand for fast, secure and, most importantly, easily-deployable NFC solutions,” he added.

Cellum supported MasterCard in launching its MasterPass platform in Hungary, and has recently become an official MasterCard Digital Vendor Partner.

The company provides MasterPass-enabled wallet services to banks and telcos, as well as integration services to merchants, based on its PCI DSS compliant platform. As MasterCard is preparing to roll out new HCE-based contactless payments into MasterPass, Cellum will be offering the same functionality to its partners.

Cellum COO Ábel Garamhegyi said: “Cellum has been providing its mobile wallet technology in a white-label model for years. We have successful partnerships from Europe to Asia and are very proud to be able to serve the diverse  needs of our various clients and markets.

“As an official Digital Vendor Partner of MasterCard, we are able to provide the online experience of MasterPass and the one-touch convenience of PayPass in a single application, under our partner’s brand."