Since I’ve been using my iPhone, I’ve definitely taken advantage of online banking while on the go. I can easily check my balance while waiting in line to purchase something. This has come in handy numerous times, but then again, it’s also failed on some occasions due to long load times and the need to zoom in and tap on the tiny buttons. Being Canadian, there is also a lack of banking apps for us. The closest I’ve gotten to a banking app is an ATM Finder. If only I was here today to tell you of an app that did more. Unfortunately, I am not, as it appears this new app from Scotiabank is simply another ATM Finder using GPS. However, there is an additional service, not an app, that will send you text messages about notifications.
Scotiabank today announced two new mobile services to keep customers informed during their busy days. The first is the launch of Scotia InfoAlerts, a service that notifies customers via text message or e-mail of transactional activities in their accounts. The second is an application for the iPhone and iPod touch or Blackberry smartphones, providing Canadians with a GPS locator for Scotiabank branches and ABMs.
“Scotiabank has always prided itself on providing excellent customer service whether it’s in our branches, over the phone or online and with today’s announcement we are extending this commitment to mobile devices,†said Jason Charlebois, Vice-President ,Self Service Banking, Scotiabank. “With Scotia InfoAlerts our retail and small business customers will be kept up-to-date with their account activity. Customers simply identify the account information they would like to receive and the Bank does the rest, providing a convenient and secure way for customers to stay informed.â€
The “Scotia InfoAlerts†is free until May 31st, 2010 as a “service that notifies customers via text message or e-mail of transactional activities in their accountsâ€. In total there are 15 alerts you can choose from, all are in real-time and secured.
Account information alerts include:
- Account balances (daily or weekly) on debit and credit accounts
- Visa/Line of credit (LOC) minimum payment due
- Specific Visa/LOC balance reached
Security-related alerts include:
- Debit and Visa card transaction alerts
- ABM withdrawal and deposit alerts
- VISA use in a foreign country
Security-related alerts advising customers about unusual activity on their account are provided at no cost while all of the account information alerts are currently offered for free until May 31st, 2010.
Although I can’t say I’m really disappointed or excited, as I’m not a Scoitabank user, but this is another step forward for some options for Canadian bankers and using their iPhone to stay up to date.
