Humaniq set to release beta currency platform in Ghana
Blockchain start-up Humaniq will launch its digital banking platform in Ghana as it aims to offer its services to the country's unbanked population, according to a company statement. It said a 'lite' version of its app will launch on Android on 31 July, offering a taste of the firm's HMQ digital currency, during which time users can register with facial recognition technology for access to the full platform. Humaniq said it plans to launch a Pro version on iOS and Android later in the year, and will offer more details at this week's Barclays’ Rise London FinTech event.

“…next year the platform will be expanded to support additional financial services like insurance, business financing, and even an in-app e-commerce system.”

Humaniq will trial its digital banking platform in Ghana starting at the end of this month.

A ‘Lite’ version of its flagship app will launch on Android on July 31st, allowing users to test the company’s HMQ cryptocurrency. Users will be prompted to register their biometrics for subsequent logins, and will then get access to HMQ. From there, users will be able to store and transfer HMQ to others, even those who haven’t yet signed up for the app.

Humaniq says its aim is to bring inclusive financial services to the world’s unbanked. It plans to launch a ‘Pro’ version of the app for both Android and iOS to the general public “later in the year,” according to a statement from the company; and it says next year the platform will be expanded to support additional financial services like insurance, business financing, and even an in-app e-commerce system.

The face recognition biometric technology featured on the HumaniQ app is provided by VisionLabs, a visual recognition company.

HumaniQ says it will offer numerous further details about the platform and its plans at a presentation and meeting on July 26th at Barclays’ Rise London FinTech space.