USAA diversifies its digital wallet

USAA has debuted several new features designed to make its digital wallet more versatile and to cast payments as one of a series of services.

Members will now be able to access to card numbers and account information in the digital wallet; access proof of auto insurance; view medical information; use third-party payment apps from Samsung, Apple and Android; block cards for security purposes; and activate accounts and change their PIN.

"Our goal is to take mobile one step further from point of sale capabilities," said Prianka Advani, assistant vice president and USAA, in a press release.

The San Antonio-based financial institution, which has been building its digital wallet for more than a half decade, often adds new technology early to serve its military-heavy customer base, which often must move quickly or access financial services from disparate locations.

It recently added voice-based card controls, and has increased its use of biometrics as an authentication tool.