HSBC and First Direct have launched a mobile phone banking service offering mini-statements and balance enquiries through users’ handsets.

The service, developed by the cash machine network Link and partner Monitise, also allows customers to top up their own or someone else’s prepay mobile.

Users must download a piece of software onto their phone. Once registered and authenticated they will have secure account access via their mobile phone.

First Direct chief executive Chris Pilling says there are more people with mobiles today than traditional landline telephones.

‘The service helps us give customers the widest choice of ways to control their money.’

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