POSB launches first ATM allowing video-chats with bank tellers

SINGAPORE — POSB Bank Singapore has launched the Republic’s first teller machines allowing “face-to-face” assistance, with the first such machine installed at the bank’s ITE College Central branch.

Once in full operation, the POSB Video Teller Machines (VTMs) will provide 24/7 banking services with the option of live-video streaming with bank tellers, said the bank on Tuesday (Aug 16).

The VTMS can also dispense Internet banking security tokens and debit cards instantly, said POSB.

Under a pilot programme, the first VTM, at 2 Ang Mo Kio Drive, will not be available at all hours. It can be accessed by the public from 10am to 2pm (Monday to Fridays) and 10am to 1pm (Saturdays). And only select functions, including Internet banking token replacement, are available.

“Customers who urgently need to have their Internet banking tokens or debit cards replaced after branch banking hours, will soon be able to go to POSB VTMs to have their token or card dispensed instantly to them, after verification,” said Mr Jeremy Soo, managing director and head of Consumer Banking Group (Singapore), DBS Bank. “And just as important, those who require assistance — whether in operating the machine or for their other banking needs — are able to access instant ‘face-to-face’ teller assistance via live-video.”

More POSB VTMs will be progressively introduced to select branches. These are expected to run with their full capabilities and be made available round-the-clock by the end of the year.

HOW TO USE THE VTMS

Customers will need to have valid ID (such as their identity card or passport) or their ATM card for verification.

The POSB VTMS will also provide the option of biometric fingervein scanning for verification if required.

Customers will be able to perform transactions such as:

• Balance enquiries
• Change of particulars
• Card services
• Instant replacement of debit and ATM cards
• Instant Internet banking token replacement
• Changing fixed deposit arrangements
• Changing Giro arrangements
• Statement requests

CLARIFICATION: An earlier version indicated incorrect opening times for a trial VTM at POSB's ITE College Central branch. POSB has since clarified that the machine will be open 10am to 2pm (Mondays to Fridays), not until 2am; and 10am to 1pm (on Saturdays), not until 1am.