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We’ve already seen how biometric technologies can help bring banking to illiterate users with NCR’s Pillar ATMs, and now we’re seeing how that same technology can be put to use in a different scenario. Specifically, in times of disaster, cardless banking ensures consumers can still access their accounts. Inspired by just that need, Japan’s Ogaki Kyoritsu Bank will soon roll out a line of ATMs that scan users’ palms and require no external form of identification. Whereas most existing biometric ATMs still require authentication using a bank card, Ogaki Kyoritsu Bank’s devices will not. Rather, users of the bank’s new ATMs will register ahead of time at a local branch with their palm print and other key information. Then, to use one of the devices they’ll need only enter their birth date and a four-digit PIN along with having their palm scanned, according to a Nikkei report. The new technology will reportedly be installed at ten banks and a drive-through ATM in September. We’ve also seen cardless banking via mobile phone, of course, but Ogaki Kyoritsu’s initiative goes a step further by completely removing the need for any additional cards or devices. Banking entrepreneurs around the globe: what about you? Spotted by: Cecilia Biemann