As of early September 2026, Sberbank reported that over 10 million people have utilized its biometric payment service, known as 'Payment by Smile'. Among these users, 4.6 million individuals made their first biometric transaction during this period. The service is currently operational across all 89 regions of Russia.
Data indicates that grocery stores and supermarkets account for 65.4% of all transactions made via this method. In August 2026, the average user completed eight payments per month using the technology. Peak usage occurs between 12:00 and 15:00, representing 32% of total operations.
To activate the service, users must select a bank card in the Sberbank Online app, generate a security code, and register their biometrics through the Gosuslugi portal. The system is also available to customers of other banks via Sber ID, allowing them to retain their original bank's loyalty program benefits, such as cashback.
The payment process requires selecting 'Pay by Smile' on the terminal screen and looking at the camera. For enhanced security, the system may prompt the user to enter a four-digit code created during the initial setup. The technology is used for various purchases, ranging from daily groceries to high-value items like automobiles.
