Global card manufacturer and NFC service provider ABnote is to integrate SimplyTapp's host card emulation (HCE) technology into its trusted service manager (TSM) platform, enabling card issuers to deploy cloud-based NFC payments solutions to their customers.

The solution "will support secure element in the cloud and any tokenization solution that would run on that architecture," SimplyTapp's Doug Yeager told NFC World.

The combined service will be hosted within ABnote's global network of data centers, "allowing traditional retailers and financial institutions to compete through innovation with companies such as PayPal and Stripe". The new service will be available from 1 April 2014.

"After meeting the SimplyTapp team we quickly knew this to be a great fit," John Ekers, ABnote's global CIO, explains. "Their solution is a natural extension to our global network of certified TSMs, and is consistent with our strategy of employing open architecture based technology for maximum interoperability.

"Their secure cloud-based SE model offers us the ability to create a truly competitive pricing landscape, with support for multiple network and device configurations like offline tokens benefiting consumers, issuers and mobile network operators alike. And because this is an Android platform it's already adopted by MNOs, providing issuers with a faster, more secure and easier way to manage essential cardholder credentials."