The Chase Freedom credit card now allows cardholders to instantly redeem points at major retailers such as Target and Starbucks through a new mobile application, reflecting how rewards programs are being reimagined for the mobile space.

Chase Freedom holders now have the option to control their accounts on their rewards right on their smartphone devices, increasing the accessibility of the service and driving impulse use of rewards points. The app allows for Chase to be anywhere its customers are, who can now redeem their points at anytime.

“The Chase Freedom Mobile App enables cardholders to have their cash back rewards with them wherever they go, making redeeming rewards even easier,” said Rob Tacey, communication at Chase Card Services. “We believe this sets us up for a longer term innovation and the ability to be agile in the mobile space.”

Mobile control
The credit card service now allows customers to control their accounts through a mobile app. The app is free to download and available for iOS and Android devices.

Customers that already use the digital banking service from Chase Freedom can log in with their preexisting account information. Those that do not have an established log-in can create one directly through the app or on its desktop Web site.

The mobile app users can view the amount of points they have to cash back to be used at established retailers such as Gap, Target, Lowe’s, Starbucks, Toys R Us, TGI Fridays, and Regal Entertainment Group. Customers can immediately redeem these points while at the retail locations or digitally shopping through the app.

Shoppers at Chase Freedom partner locations can quickly redeem their points by selecting the amount of points they wish to use along with the retailer and the app generates a digital gift card, which can be used at checkout by presenting the device. This makes the chances for its customers to impulse shop with points much greater, because they can do so at a moment’s notice, eliminating time in between which can cause many to abandon their redemption.

Chase Freedom cardholders can use their traditional cards in conjunction with their rewards points if they do not have enough or do not want to use them all. The cross payment availability can further the effect of impulse purchasing, driving sales for the retailer and use of the Freedom card.

Mobile banking
Similarly, American Express enabled its corporate cardholders to pay with their smartphones while on-the-go via a new partnership with Apple Pay, highlighting how the payment platform continues to gain steam in the financial sector (see more).

Also, the New York Mets tapped into mobile to offer promotional credit for seat upgrades to Citi card holders as well as fans who use the MLB.com application to check-in at the stadium (see more).

The integration of mobile with banking and credit card services is crucial, as it has become an industry standard now. Customers want to be able to check on their accounts wherever they are, at anytime.

“The launch of the app is another step on our journey within the payments space,” Mr. Tacey said. “We hope as many Freedom customers as possible take advantage of this new capability to get access to their cash back rewards when they shop.”

Final take
Brielle Jaekel is editorial assistant at Mobile Commerce Daily