Mastercard has launched a new AI-powered tool to allow issuers to design their own payment cards in an industry first.

The company said that its AI Card Design Studio enables users to create customised cards quickly, easily and affordably.

The studio allows users to upload logos and product details, use AI-assisted design features, customise as needed, and instantly download brand-compliant designs.

Mastercard said that the tool reduces the card design process from weeks to minutes, improving go-to-market timelines and allowing more creative flexibility.

In the next evolution of the tool, Mastercard said banks will be able to empower consumers and small businesses to generate their own card designs which will give them direct creative control to personalise their cards.

With the launch of the design tool, Mastercard said it is bringing backend innovations to the creative process, giving partners more control over the end product.

The Mastercard AI Card Design Studio is now live in North America, Europe and Australia via the Mastercard Connect platform, with further global expansion planned soon.

“We’re transforming card design into an experience that’s easier, more dynamic and more inspiring,” said Cheryl Guerin, executive vice president of global brand strategy and innovation at Mastercard. “This isn’t just a design tool, it’s a leap forward in how cards are imagined, built and brought to life.

“By putting powerful capabilities directly in our partners’ hands, we’re enabling them to create cards that don’t just function – they connect.”

The company said the design tool builds on its innovative approach to cards.

In 2023, Mastercard partnered with Citizens Financial Group to launch sustainable and accessible debit and ATM cards.

The cards are made using 90 per cent recycled PVC and feature a special notch, known as Touch Card, which improves card recognition for users who are blind and partially sighted.

Additionally, Mastercard has a sustainable card programme which aims to remove first-use PVC plastics from its network by 2028.

---