Eastern Bank PLC (EBL), working with Mastercard and IDEX Biometrics, has begun issuing what it describes as the world’s first commercially available biometric metal credit card in Bangladesh. The new card, unveiled in Dhaka this past weekend, combines fingerprint-based authentication with a metal card body, a format the companies say has not been offered commercially before.
How the Biometric Card Works
During the launch event, Bangladesh Bank Governor Dr. Ahsan H. Mansur presented the card alongside guests including Park Young Sik, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, and Fredrik Karlsrud, Chargé d’affaires from the Embassy of Norway. The card is designed to allow users to confirm purchases using a fingerprint sensor built into the card, eliminating the need for PINs or handwritten signatures. The fingerprint data is stored on the card’s secure chip rather than in a remote database.
Cardholders receive an enrollment kit that lets them register one or more fingerprints at home. This system is intended to make it easier for customers to set up the card without visiting a bank branch. Mastercard says this approach aligns with its broader goal of shifting away from traditional passwords and static card numbers in favor of biometrics and tokenization by 2030, as outlined in previous public statements.
Premium Card Benefits and Industry Context
According to EBL, the biometric metal card is issued as a World Elite Mastercard, offering benefits such as an annual complimentary luxury hotel stay, a free gourmet meal for two across the Asia-Pacific region, a SGD 100 dining credit at CÉ LA VI at Marina Bay Sands Singapore, and access to more than 46 premium golf clubs. These benefits are part of Mastercard’s World Elite program offered in various markets.
The biometric components are produced by IDEX Biometrics, while manufacturing partners include Kona I and Infineon Technologies. Industry analysts cited by IDEX expect that biometric payment cards will see increased adoption in coming years, driven by rising concerns about payment security and regulatory requirements for stronger customer authentication.
Bangladesh is the first country where such a biometric metal credit card has been commercially issued, based on statements from EBL and IDEX. The companies indicate that they see potential for similar products in other markets as financial institutions look for ways to combine security enhancements with premium offerings.
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By the ID Tech Editorial Team
