Softcard will be discontinuing its apps for Android and Windows Phone
Google’s recent acquisition of Softcard, a mobile payments platform formerly known as Isis, could spell the end for the payments service. Softcard has announced that it will be shutting down its applications for the Android and Windows Phone operating systems. While there are many mobile payments services available for the Android platform, including Google Wallet, Windows Phone has very limited options when it comes to mobile commerce. The move could leave those using Windows Phone out of the mobile payments space for some time.
Mobile payments firm finds modest success after its initial launch and rebranding
Softcard was launched as a joint venture from AT&T, Verizon Wireless, and T-Mobile. The platform had received strong support during its various stages of development, with many believing that it would change the mobile commerce space. After its launch, however, Softcard had only managed to find modest success. A rebranding effort last year did little to help the company, apart from distancing it from political issues that have emerged in other parts of the world.
Windows Phone users may be left out of mobile commerce after Softcard app shuts down
The Softcard app currently serves as one of Microsoft’s entries into the mobile payments space. While Microsoft is not responsible for Softcard, the company did support the application on its Windows Phone platform. Without Softcard, Microsoft may have to look for a new way to establish some semblance of a presence in the mobile commerce market. Until that time, however, Windows Phone users will not be able to participate in mobile commerce, which may cause some frustration among these consumers.
Softcard app will continue to work until the company shuts it down in the future
Softcard has not announced a definitive date when its application will no longer be available on the Windows Phone and Android platforms. The company has announced that the app will no longer be available for these platforms in the future. Currently, those with Softcard accounts can continue using the application to make mobile payments as they see fit.
Small businesses may benefit from the partnership between Microsoft and PayPal. Small retailers have been looking for ways to engage mobile consumers in an effective manner, but have had some trouble doing so because of the complications of entering into the mobile commerce space. Companies like PayPal and Microsoft can help make this process easier, offering small businesses a chance to build a mobile audience that is interested in shopping for and purchasing products with their mobile devices.