Wearable Payment Gadget Provided by American Express to Tennis Spectators
In a move to enhance the event experience, American Express has partnered with the United States Tennis Association (USTA) to bring a contactless payment wristband, the Amex Band, to the U.S. Open Tennis Championships. This marks the 25th year of American Express's partnership with the USTA for the U.S. Open.
The Amex Band is not a new concept, having been first used at the Olympics. It allows eligible Card Members to pay for purchases and unlock unique benefits with a simple tap. The wristband is not offered by Visa, but it is part of American Express's strategy to compete in the emerging wearables market.
American Express has integrated loyalty features with the Amex Band, granting card members access to on-site clubs, lounges, and promotional items. The USTA has also introduced more contactless payment options throughout the U.S. Open experience.
The Amex Band is not limited to a single location. Card Members can activate their Amex Band at various locations, including the US Open American Express Fan Experience, South Plaza, and American Express Radio Satellite Booths.
In addition to the Amex Band, American Express is creating an interactive tennis experience called Super Rally at the U.S. Open. The company is also opening a Centurion Suite at the new Louis Armstrong Stadium during the U.S. Open.
The success of mobile payments providers has shown that customer usage increases when features beyond just payment are integrated. As such, the Amex Band is expected to attract more users and provide a seamless, convenient, and enjoyable experience for attendees.
The U.S. Open Tennis Championships are taking place next week at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens, NY. The performance of the Amex Band will be closely watched by payments fans, in addition to the on-court action.
[1] The technology used in the Amex Band is similar to the SECORA™ Pay technology family, which supports embedding payment capabilities into battery-less passive wearables like wristbands and bracelets with certified EMV-ready applications. This technology provides fast transaction performance combined with security and convenience suited for event environments such as the U.S. Open.
Sources: - SECORA Pay Technology (Retrieved 2023-01-20)
- The Amex Band, a contactless payment wristband, is part of American Express's strategy to compete in the emerging wearables market, similar to the Secora Pay technology family that supports embedding payment capabilities into battery-less passive wearables like wristbands and bracelets.
- As the U.S. Open Tennis Championships approach, the Amex Band will offer card members not only a contactless payment solution but also access to on-site clubs, lounges, and promotional items, creating an immersive sports and gadgets experience that combines technology and sports, such as tennis.
