Mastercard has signed up to Onstar Go, a smart car platform from IBM and General Motors.
This collaboration will bring Masterpass secure, payment technology and Mastercard Digital Enablement Services (MDES) to a new cognitive mobility platform called OnStar Go, which will be embedded across many GM vehicles starting in 2017.
Consumers have come to expect a broad range of sophisticated technology features in their cars such as Wi-Fi access, voice-activated controls, keyless entry and remote start and stop.
By embedding Masterpass within OnStar Go, Mastercard will enable drivers and passengers to make secure payments for goods and services using credit or debit cards stored within their Masterpass wallet.
With IBM Watson, OnStar Go enables merchants and brands to create new, connected driving experiences. For example, if a driver picks up breakfast from a specific restaurant that is part of the OnStar Go merchant marketplace, the restaurant would have the ability to prompt the driver to order menu items based on past order history.
The driver is then able to order ahead and checkout with Masterpass directly from the car and pick up his order, without having to pay at the restaurant. With time and increased usage, the merchant is able to learn more about the driver’s preferences and is able to make offers, which are delivered on the dashboard and are more personalized and contextual.