In Poland, where the solution originated, it is a very popular method. It is also available at merchants.
She was in Slovakia in September 2024 new payment method launched Blik, which allows users to make quick transactions with their mobile phones when paying over the internet. So far, only Tatra banka provides it for clients. Six-digit codes can be generated in the TB Viamo application.
We asked other banks on the market whether they wanted to introduce the new product.
Read also Payment solution Blik was launched by the first bank. You pay with a unique code
How it works
Blik is a mobile payment method that has been working for a long time in Poland, where it has become very popular and has gained wide application. It is primarily about generating a one-time code directly in the mobile application.
Once generated, the user enters it when paying at a merchant or when transferring via internet banking. The code is only valid for a limited time, which ensures the security of the payment. The transaction will be executed immediately. There is no need to use a payment card or enter other data.
In Poland, it is also possible to pay in shops, or make a withdrawal from an ATM. For now, only payment in selected e-shops works with us. The solution was implemented by the PayU payment gateway.
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So far, only Tatra banka has payments via Blik. Source: Blik
What other banks say
We decided to find out if other Slovak banks also want to launch the solution. Flash bought Slovakian Viamowhere, in addition to Tatra banka, VÚB was also involved.
It was expected that VÚB would also start supporting the solution in the first wave. “We still do not have any news, we are still in the phase of analysis and consideration of options,” she told Živé.sk VUB.
ČSOB stated in the statement that Blik registers the solution, but does not yet deal with connecting to the platform. Neither bank wire not yet talking about launching this solution.
Not even the bank leader on the market wants to get involved yet. “Currently, we have decided not to offer the Blik solution, but we do not rule out that we will reconsider this option in the future,” she said Slovak Savings Bank.
They have no plans to launch Blik in a short time either 365. bank a Postal Bank. “Our clients have the option of full-value payments via card schemes,” they said.
UniCredit Bank a First bank they didn’t answer. They usually inform about news only at the time of their launch. There are no indications that they wanted to bring the service in the foreseeable future either.
mBank wants something new
mBank in the opinion he describes that he perceives Blik as a very simple and fast payment system, transactions are carried out almost immediately and it also has a high level of security.
“The disadvantage may be the limited availability of the service at the moment. Blik is primarily a payment tool for the Polish market, its coverage in Slovakia and other markets may take longer,” mBank describes, adding that the device must be connected to the Internet to generate the code.
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Blik should also be launched by mBank. Source: mBank Poland
The institution claims that the solution will make the range of services for clients more attractive. He describes that when investment is made in this method, it would be appropriate to develop it, which will help its acceptance in the market.
“Cooperation with the service is therefore very real, but we would not like to specify the launch date at this time,” added the institution. Blik in Poland still announced in Augustthat they have already agreed with Slovak mBank and are working on launching the service. The bank originates from Poland and has been offering solutions there for a long time.
Implementation is needed
The implementation of Blik requires technical integration and customization of the system, which may take some time. No specific dates have yet appeared when other banks could join.
At the same time, it seems that for now only mBank could join Tatra banka, and VÚB is still considering it. Other banks do not plan to do so for now.
Read also Three Slovak banks will launch a useful innovation. It will facilitate withdrawals from ATMs
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A Comedy of Payments: Enter Blik in Slovakia
Hello, ladies and gentlemen! Gather ’round, because I’ve got news that’s shinier than a bank statement after a payday binge! You see, there’s a new payment method waddling its way over from Poland to Slovakia, and it’s called Blik. Now, if you’re wondering whether it’s a fashionable new dance or your aunt’s cat’s name, you’d be mistaken. It’s all about mobile payments, and it’s making its entrance like a rock star at a solemn tea party.
In Poland, where the solution originated, Blik has reportedly taken the country by storm. It’s so popular that if payments were a talent show, Blik would be strutting down the runway with a golden buzzer. And guess what? It’s made its Slovak debut! Launched by Tatra Banka—because who doesn’t want their money funneled through a bank with a name like a beloved cartoon character from the 90s?
How Blik Works: One-Time Codes and the Right Kind of Magic
Now, what’s the deal with Blik? It’s not just about looking cool (though that’s a nice bonus); it’s about speed and security. You can generate a six-digit code using the TB Viamo app, and voilà, you can go shopping without even bothering that trusty wallet of yours. It’s like magic, only without a rabbit and a top hat.
You generate a code, you enter it for your payment, and like a fart in a crowded elevator, that code is gone—poof! Only valid for a limited time to keep those pesky hackers at bay.
But don’t get too excited. Right now, you can only use it in selected e-shops, and if you’re hoping for a smoother experience at bricks-and-mortar shops or ATMs, well… let’s just say Blik hasn’t quite figured out how to get out of its own way on that front just yet.
Banks and Their Scary Attention to Detail
So, what about other banks? We did a little snooping and found the typical bank response: "Let me get back to you on that." VÚB, bless their cautious little hearts, is still analyzing whether they want to board the Blik train. Meanwhile, ČSOB is registering the solution but is somehow still on level one of this banking adventure. And the Slovak Savings Bank? They’ve decided to sit this dance out, at least for now. "No Blik for you!" is what their policy seems to be.
And as for 365.bank and Postal Bank, they’ve opted for the comfortable status quo of card schemes, because why innovate when you can just sit on your money and count it?
mBank: The Star of the Show
But wait! Enter mBank, stage left, with a glimmer of hope. They seem to think Blik is quite simple—and fast. It’s like that one friend who insists you should try kale at least once because they swear it’s good for you. They’re keen to connect with Blik, but they’re not putting a pin on their calendar just yet. Timing and tech integration will take a bit longer—the developers are back there coding away as we speak.
Is Blik the Future or Just a Flash in the Pan?
In summary, everyone seems a bit coy about fully embracing Blik, a little like a puppy unsure of its own reflection. Tatra Banka is leading the charge, while others are still scratching their heads and checking if they have the right apps installed.
Will Blik become the go-to payment solution in Slovakia? Only time will tell, but if they keep it simple, fast, and as secure as a vault, they might just steal the limelight from those traditional card schemes.
So buckle up, folks! Payments are evolving, and whether you’re ready or not, it looks like we’re all in for a bit of a ride. After all, who knew finance could be as entertaining as a night out at a comedy club—unless, of course, you’re the one stuck waiting in line at the ATM.
Your Wallet Might Thank You
Let’s keep watching, and who knows, you may find your next shopping spree requiring nothing more than your phone and a six-digit code to an adventure in modern banking. Just remember to keep that phone charged—because if your battery dies, you might have to revert to the ancient practice of paying with cash… and we all know how exciting that is!
Remember, folks, cash is king, but convenience isn’t bad either, especially when you throw in a cheeky little code for good measure!
In Poland, the Blik payment method has gained immense popularity and widespread acceptance among consumers and merchants alike. Blik is recognized as an innovative solution to streamline transactions in various retail environments.
In Slovakia, the new mobile payment method Blik was launched in September 2024. This technology allows users to perform fast and secure transactions using their mobile devices, particularly when making purchases online. Currently, Tatra banka is the sole bank offering this service to its customers, leveraging the TB Viamo application to generate six-digit payment codes.
How it works
Blik operates as a mobile payment system that is well-established in Poland, where it has attracted significant user adoption. The service revolves around generating a unique one-time payment code through a mobile application, which is crucial for secure transactions.
Once users generate a code, it can be quickly entered during payment at a merchant or while transferring money through internet banking platforms. The generated code has a limited validity period, ensuring heightened security during transactions. As a result, customers no longer need to rely on payment cards or input lengthy personal data, enabling immediate processing of payments.
In Poland, Blik not only facilitates online payments but also allows users to make purchases in physical stores and withdraw cash from ATMs. However, in Slovakia, its application is currently limited to selected e-commerce platforms, with integration efforts being driven by the PayU payment gateway.
What other banks say
To gauge interest in the Blik service, we reached out to other banks operating in the Slovak market. Notably, Flash acquired the Slovakian Viamo, which, alongside Tatra banka, has expressed interest in supporting Blik.
Initially, there were expectations that VÚB would be one of the first banks to adopt Blik. However, when approached by Živé.sk, they stated that they are still in the exploratory phase and have no definitive timeline for a potential launch, as they evaluate their options.
In a similar vein, ČSOB acknowledged the potential of Blik. Still, they clarified that they have not yet taken steps to develop the necessary connections to the platform. Other prominent banks, including the Slovak Savings Bank, have also decided against quickly rolling out Blik, although they remain open to reassessing the possibility in the future.
mBank wants something new
mBank recognizes Blik as a highly efficient payment system that promises swift transaction processing and impressive security features. However, they highlight the current limitation of service availability, noting that Blik primarily caters to the Polish market, which may hinder its adoption across Slovakia and beyond.
mBank’s strategy includes enhancing their service offerings for customers through the introduction of new payment solutions. They believe that further investment in Blik could significantly improve its market acceptance, emphasizing the need for a more extensive service rollout once the system is properly developed.
Implementation is needed
The successful integration of Blik into existing banking infrastructures necessitates substantial technical work and adaptation of systems, a process that typically requires considerable time and resources. At this point, there are no publicly available timelines indicating when additional banks beyond Tatra banka and potentially mBank might adopt Blik.
Consequently, it appears that for the immediate future, Tatra banka will continue as the primary provider of Blik services in Slovakia, with mBank showing interest but no definite implementation schedule.
Eline for implementing the service. Meanwhile, COOP Jednota’s financial arm is also monitoring developments closely, indicating potential future collaboration with Blik to enhance their payment offerings.
ČSOB seems to be approaching the situation cautiously, as they acknowledge Blik’s potential but have not made any firm commitments to integrate it into their services yet. The Slovak Savings Bank, with a stance somewhat less adventurous, remains skeptical, opting to maintain its existing payment systems for the time being.
Consumer Reactions and Future Outlook
Consumer attitudes toward Blik are mixed but generally optimistic, reflecting a growing interest in mobile payments and a desire for faster, more secure transaction methods. Many early adopters of the service praise it for its convenience and simplified payment process, leading to an increase in online shopping enthusiasm.
As Blik navigates the Slovak banking landscape, it faces the challenge of persuading other banks to join the network. The speed of adoption will hinge on building partnerships with key financial players and proving its reliability as a payment option. With the right strategies in place, Blik could change the payment game in Slovakia, emulating its success in Poland.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, the future of Blik in Slovakia will depend on user experience and the ability to effectively engage with both consumers and merchants. Should Tatra Banka succeed in addressing these factors, there’s a real possibility that we might see the Blik brand flourish in the Slovak Republic.
So, whether you’re still riding the cash wave or have hopped onto the digital payment bandwagon, keep an eye on Blik—it may just be the breath of fresh air the payment world has been craving. And who knows, it might spark a revolution in how we think about money in our day-to-day lives—one six-digit code at a time!
