Germans get Voda, O2 backed m-payment service

German wireless operators Vodafone and O2 launched an m-payment service Friday, allowing users to make direct debit payments from their handset.

The mpass service can be tied to a user’s debit account, so they can make online purchases just by entering their mobile number and PIN.

Before the purchase is cleared, users will receive a follow up SMS requesting confirmation.

The backers of the technology claim it is more secure because there is no need to enter bank account or debit/credit card information when making online purchases.