Published Date : 7/9/2025Â
STMicroelectronics, a leading semiconductor manufacturer, has launched STPay-Topaz-2, a system-on-chip tailored for contactless payment cards. This innovation builds on the company’s existing STPay solutions, which have already powered over three billion payment cards globally. The STPay-Topaz-2 is designed to address the growing demand for versatile, secure, and future-proof payment technologies. By supporting a wider range of payment brands, the chip allows card manufacturers to reduce inventory complexity, as it enables the preloading of the maximum number of applets on a single part number. This flexibility is a game-changer for the industry, where customization and scalability are critical. n n nThe STPay-Topaz-2 is part of the broader STPay-Topaz product family, which includes the STPay-Topaz-Bio. This earlier model was used by Fingerprint Cards and SPS, a subsidiary of IN Groupe, to develop a secure component solution for biometric payment cards in 2024. The integration of biometric authentication into payment cards is a significant step forward, as it enhances security while improving user convenience. Bruno Batut, Marketing Director at STMicroelectronics’ Connected Security Division, emphasized the importance of adapting to market demands:Â
Q: What is STPay-Topaz-2, and what does it do?
A: STPay-Topaz-2 is a system-on-chip designed for contactless payment cards. It supports multiple payment brands, streamlines inventory management, and enhances security with advanced cryptographic features.
Q: How does STPay-Topaz-2 improve user experience?
A: The chip includes an auto-tuning feature that ensures consistent performance across terminals, enabling a seamless "tap-anywhere" experience for users.
Q: What security features does STPay-Topaz-2 offer?
A: It includes enhanced cryptographic engines like RSA, 3DES, AES, and ECC, along with certifications such as EMVCo and Common Criteria EAL6+ for robust security.
Q: How does STPay-Topaz-2 benefit card manufacturers?
A: It allows preloading the maximum number of applets on a single part number, reducing inventory complexity and streamlining production processes.
Q: What future standards does STPay-Topaz-2 support?
A: The chip is prepared for upcoming industry standards, including the EMVCo C-8 kernel, ensuring compatibility with evolving digital payment requirements.Â