The “Smartphone ATM” service, which allows you to deposit and withdraw cash from ATMs using only your smartphone without carrying a cash card, is becoming more widespread. By using compatible bank apps, you can easily make transactions at convenience store ATMs and other locations.
This article explains in detail the basic mechanism of Smartphone ATMs, their pros and cons, available transactions, compatibility and specific usage methods at major convenience store ATMs, required apps and setup methods, and precautions and security measures when using them.
What is a Smartphone ATM? Pros, Cons, and Available Transactions
A Smartphone ATM is a service that allows you to perform transactions such as cash deposits and withdrawals without using a cash card by linking a smartphone app provided by a bank with an ATM.
Pros
- Cardless Transactions: Since you can conduct ATM transactions with just your smartphone, there’s no need to carry a cash card. This is suitable for those who want to lighten their wallet or reduce the risk of card loss or theft.
- Improved Convenience: In some cases, transaction details can be set المرض (fixed: in advance) on the app, reducing the time spent operating the ATM.
- Enhanced Security: Many services enhance security by combining app-based biometric authentication (fingerprint, facial recognition, etc.) or passcode authentication with an authentication code input at the ATM.
Cons
- Smartphone Required: Cannot be used if the smartphone’s battery is dead, if the phone is malfunctioning, or in areas with no signal.
- Limited Compatible ATMs and Financial Institutions: Not all ATMs or financial institutions support Smartphone ATMs.
- App Installation and Initial Setup Required: Before use, you need to install the compatible bank app and complete initial setup (account linking, identity verification, etc.).
- Restrictions on Some Transactions: Compared to transactions using a cash card, some transactions, such as transfers or large-amount transactions, may not be available.
Main Available Transactions
The main transactions available with Smartphone ATMs are as follows. However, these may vary depending on the financial institution and ATM.
- Cash deposit
- Cash withdrawal
- Card loan borrowing and repayment
Transactions such as bank transfers and balance inquiries are generally provided as functions of the banking app itself, rather than as Smartphone ATM functions.
【By Convenience Store】Smartphone ATM Compatibility and How to Use
This section explains the compatibility of Smartphone ATMs at major convenience store ATMs and how to use them with typical banking apps.
Smartphone ATM at Seven Bank ATMs (My Seven Bank App, etc.): Setup and Operating Procedures
- Compatible Banking Apps:
- Seven Bank “My Seven Bank” app
- PayPay Bank app
- au Jibun Bank smartphone app
- NEOBANK Sumishin SBI Net Bank app
- Minna no Ginko app
- Other bank apps compatible with Smartphone ATM transactions at Seven Bank ATMs
- Compatible Consumer Finance Apps:
- Promise (SMBC Consumer Finance)
- Aiful
- SMBC Mobit (Sumitomo Mitsui Card)
- Acom “myac” app
- Docomo Finance
- Setup (When opening an account with the My Seven Bank app):
- Install the “My Seven Bank” app and apply to open an account.
- Perform initial setup within the app.
- Operating Procedures (For withdrawal with the My Seven Bank app):
- Select “Withdrawal, Deposit, Credit Transaction, etc.” on the ATM screen.
- Select “Smartphone” on the ATM screen.
- Launch the app and select “Withdrawal.”
- Scan the QR code displayed on the ATM screen with the app.
- Enter the “Corporate Number” displayed in the app on the ATM screen.
- Enter the “PIN” or “Authentication Number” on the ATM screen.
- Confirm the transaction details entered in the app.
- Receive cash from the ATM.
- Features: Many affiliated bank and consumer finance apps support Smartphone ATM transactions at Seven Bank ATMs. The QR code scanning method is mainstream.
Source: Smartphone ATM: Deposit and Withdraw Cash from ATM without a Card | Seven Bank
Smartphone ATM at Lawson Bank ATMs (Lawson Bank Direct App, etc.): Setup and Operating Procedures
- Compatible Banking Apps:
- Lawson Bank “Lawson Bank Direct” app
- PayPay Bank app
- au Jibun Bank smartphone app
- NEOBANK Sumishin SBI Net Bank app
- Other apps from some banks compatible with Smartphone ATM transactions at Lawson Bank ATMs
- Compatible Consumer Finance Apps:
- Promise (SMBC Consumer Finance)
- Aiful
- SMBC Mobit (Sumitomo Mitsui Card)
- Acom “myac” app
- Docomo Finance
- Setup (For Lawson Bank Direct app):
- Install the “Lawson Bank Direct” app.
- Perform initial setup within the app.
- Operating Procedures (For withdrawal with the Lawson Bank Direct app):
- Select “Smartphone Transaction” on the ATM screen.
- Launch the app, select “Withdrawal,” and enter the withdrawal amount.
- Scan the QR code displayed on the ATM screen with the app.
- Enter the “Corporate Number” displayed in the app on the ATM screen.
- Enter the “PIN” on the ATM screen.
- Confirm the withdrawal amount.
- Receive cash from the ATM.
- Features: In addition to Lawson Bank’s own app, apps from some affiliated banks and consumer finance companies are also compatible. QR code-based authentication is common.
Source: Smartphone ATM | Lawson Bank
Smartphone ATM Compatibility at Other Convenience Store ATMs (AEON Bank, E-net, etc.)
- AEON Bank ATMs (Ministop, AEON stores, etc.):
- As of now (2025), AEON Bank ATMs do not support Smartphone ATM services.
- E-net ATMs (FamilyMart, etc.):
- As of now (2025), E-net ATMs do not support Smartphone ATM services.
- Japan Post Bank ATMs (FamilyMart, etc.):
- Japan Post Bank ATMs allow deposits and withdrawals with the “Yucho Passbook App.”
Source: Yucho Passbook App – Japan Post Bank
Compatibility status changes daily, so it is important to check the website or app information of the bank you wish to use, as well as information from the ATM operating company.
Required Apps and Setup Method to Use Smartphone ATM
To use a Smartphone ATM, the following preparations and settings are required first.
- Open an Account with a Compatible Bank: A savings account, etc., with a bank that offers Smartphone ATM services is necessary.
- Install the Dedicated Smartphone App: Install the official smartphone app specified by the bank you wish to use from the App Store or Google Play.
- Register Account and Verify Identity in the App: Launch the app and register your account information (branch number, account number, etc.) by following the on-screen instructions. In many cases, identity verification is performed using an internet banking ID/password, cash card PIN, SMS authentication, biometric authentication, etc.
- Smartphone ATM Usage Settings (If Required): Within the app, complete procedures to start using the Smartphone ATM service, set daily transaction limits, etc. Additional authentication (e.g., sending a confirmation code to the registered phone number) may be required at this time.
- Recommended Biometric Authentication Settings: Setting up your smartphone’s biometric authentication (fingerprint, facial recognition) for app startup and transaction authentication improves security and makes operations smoother.
Setup methods vary by bank and app, so be sure to refer to each bank’s official guide.
Precautions and Security Measures When Using Smartphone ATMs
Smartphone ATMs are convenient, but pay attention to the following points to use them safely.
- Smartphone Device Security Management:
- Always set a screen lock (passcode, pattern, biometric authentication) on your smartphone.
- Keep your OS and apps updated to the latest versions, and consider installing security software.
- Enable features that allow remote locking or data erasure (e.g., “Find My iPhone,” “Find My Device”) in case of loss or theft.
- Bank App Security:
- Set login passwords and transaction PINs for your bank app that are difficult for others to guess, and change them regularly.
- Avoid using the app in insecure network environments, such as public Wi-Fi, as much as possible.
- Precautions During ATM Operation:
- Check if there are any suspicious people around while operating the ATM, and be careful not to let anyone see your screen or operations.
- When entering QR codes or authentication numbers, be considerate so that third parties cannot see them.
- Check and Set Transaction Limits: Check the per-transaction and daily transaction limits for Smartphone ATMs, and set them to appropriate amounts as needed.
- Utilize Notification Services: Setting up transaction notification emails or push notification services provided by the bank can lead to early detection of unauthorized use.
- Beware of Phishing Scams: Be cautious of phishing scams that attempt to trick you into revealing IDs, passwords, authentication information, etc., through fake emails or SMS messages impersonating banks. Do not open links in suspicious emails; always access services through official websites or apps.
- In Case of Smartphone Loss or Theft: If your smartphone is lost or stolen, promptly contact the bank you use and complete the procedure to suspend Smartphone ATM services. Also, contact your mobile phone carrier to suspend your line.
Smartphone ATMs are a service that reduces the physical risks of cash cards and increases convenience. However, the security management of the smartphone itself is extremely important. Follow the precautions above to use Smartphone ATMs safely and conveniently.