Google is the first mobile platform to announce a true mobile payment solution imbedded into its operating system. Mobile payments will allow Smartphone users to swipe their phone at a payment station in a store, and pay for a good or service. This technology has been a missing link for mobile commence solutions. Google’s next version of its Android Smartphone software will support a technology that lets people use their handsets, instead of credit cards, to pay for goods at restaurants and stores. Google CEO Eric Schmitt said during this week’s Web 2.0  conference that support for the technology, dubbed Near Field Communications, will be integrated into the next version of its Android software, “Gingerbread”, which he said will be introduced in a few weeks. While near Field communications is not a new technology, its use in enabling mobile payments is very new in The United States. Near Field Communication or NFC, is a short-range high frequency wireless communication technology which enables the exchange of data between devices over about a 10 centimeter (around 4 inches) distance. It will only be a matter of time before other platforms such as Apple’s iPhone and Microsoft Windows Phone 7 have their own mobile payment solution. Both platforms have been rumored to be incorporating this technology in 2011.

Three of the four largest mobile phone carriers in the U.S. have formed a joint venture to turn phones into digital wallets, allowing subscribers to pay for groceries and other retail items using their phones, instead of credit cards or other methods. On November 16, 2010 AT&T Mobility, Verizon Wireless and T-Mobile USA, with a combined 220 million U.S. customers, announced Tuesday that they have formed the Isis mobile commerce network, with service expected to roll out in some markets within 18 months. The network, based on open standards, will welcome any mobile carriers, banks and retail outlets that want to join, said Michael Abbott, Isis’ CEO.

Many mobile application developers will incorporate this new functionality in mobile retailing applications. As Leaders in Enterprise Mobility, Smartsoft Mobile Solutions is currently incorporating many technologies into their products to give their customers enhanced functionality and features including Near Field communications technology.

For more information check out:

The Impact of Mobility on the 2010 Holiday Shopping Season

Best Practices: How Should a Retailer Select a Strategic Mobile Partner

Best Practices: Leadership in Enterprise Mobility Part 1 

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Posted by: ben.lee, Wednesday, November 17th, 2010 at 10:58 am.
Categories: Application Development.
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