AIB HAS ANNOUNCED it will replace Laser cards with Visa debit cards from the second half of next year which will enable cardholders to pay for some purchases with ‘contactless’ technology.

As the largest issuer of debit cards in Ireland with some 1.4 million AIB debit cards in circulation, the bank has announced that from the second half of 2012 cards will be changed over from Laser/Maestro to Visa debit cards.

This will allow for the use of ‘contactless’ technology where card holders will be able to pay for purchases of €15 or under by simply holding their card over a reader at participating outlets.

The new Visa debit cards will also provide for greater worldwide acceptance at millions of retail outlets and 1.6 million ATMs in more than 200 countries.

Last week, Bank of Ireland announced that later this year it will introduce nearly one million Visa debit cards to its customers so as that they can also avail of ‘contactless’ payment.

No action is required by Laser cardholders with current cards continuing to operate as normal until new Visa debit cards are issued.