MasterCard Worldwide has launched its location-based ATM Hunter application in the Apple App Store.

The application lets iPhone and iPod touch users locate the nearest ATM no matter where in the world they are. The MasterCard ATM Hunter uses the iPhone or iPod touch's location awareness technologies to pinpoint the search.

"MasterCard ATM Hunter is the first in a series of mobile applications designed specifically for the iPhone and iPod touch to make life easier for consumers," said Cheryl Guerin, senior vice president of global digital marketing for MasterCard Worldwide, Purchase, NY. "MasterCard recognizes the importance of building further relevance and credibility in the growing mobile channel.

"Rather than being detoured or slowed down looking for the nearest ATM, consumers can quickly find an ATM and spend more time doing things they enjoy," she said. "As a world-class and trusted brand, MasterCard is delivering value to consumers through this innovative application which strengthens our relationship with cardholders and makes MasterCard the brand of choice for financial institutions that issue our products."

"Today's consumers are constantly on the go and plugged into their mobile devices."

Consumers can customize their hunt based on their unique banking needs, such as focusing their search to a specific financial institution if they need to make a deposit or wish to avoid ATM withdrawal fees.

MasterCard ATM Hunter can also pinpoint wheelchair accessible, drive-through, or 24-hour-access ATMs and provide the directions to get there.

Additionally, MasterCard ATM Hunter automatically provides users with helpful ATM safety tips.

MasterCard ATM Hunter is available for free from Apple's App Store on iPhone and iPod touch or at http://www.itunes.com/appstore.

Powered by the MasterCard Location Services platform, MasterCard ATM Hunter is the latest delivery channel for ATM location information from MasterCard.

Each year, more than two million consumers contact MasterCard via the Web, phone and SMS to find ATM locations.

MasterCard ATM Hunter is the first in a series of free applications that MasterCard is developing specifically for iPhone and iPod touch.

"MasterCard will launch the ATM Hunter with a public relations campaign that spans traditional and social media, and promote ATM Hunter on our Web sites Priceless.com and Mastercard.com," Ms. Guerin said.