Shahr Bank has become the first Iranian bank to deploy a virtual teller machine (VTM). The new facility provides six services to customers, marking the first move by an Iranian bank toward a smart bank model. Located in a self-service zone, the VTM enables voice and video communications as well as desktop sharing between customers and remote bank tellers to implement an array of functions. The machine fills the gap between face-to-face and self-service banking services for Bank Shahr. Hossein Mohammad Pourzarandi, public relations officer at the bank, said the system is capable of opening accounts and transferring money, adding that customers can also use the system to report a missing bank card or block their accounts. Pourzarandi announced the bank will focus on expanding its VTM services in future to serve as unattended bank outlets that provide 24/7 customer service instead of opening more physical branches.
