WIRED is the latest publication to report that the soon-to-be-announced iPhone 6 will be accompanied by a new mobile payment system using NFC technology.
The company’s next iPhone will feature its own payment platform, sources familiar with the matter told WIRED. In fact, that platform will be one of the hallmark features of the device when it’s unveiled on September 9. We’re told the solution will involve NFC.
NFC, or near field communication, has long been a rumored addition for the iPhone hardware with reports claiming each year that the next iPhone will come featuring the necessary chip set to support the feature.
Most recently, a leaked schematic by GeekBar on Weibo purported to show a popular NFC chip, although its connection to iPhone could not be directly made aside from the claim.
Leaked circuit boards purporting to show NFC support and a report from VentureBeat earlier this year add to WIRED’s report today that the iPhone 6 will actually sport NFC capabilities.
As for WIRED’s mention that a payment platform will be a hallmark feature of the iPhone 6, a number of reports including from 9to5Mac have offered light on Apple’s plans in this space.
In May, we reported that Apple was holding discussions with major retailers to talk about their upcoming payment system, and The Information later reported that Apple was holding discussions with credit card companies regarding its plans for the service. Re/code has also reported on Apple’s plans to enter the space this year.
Apple CEO Tim Cook has even went so far as to hint as the company’s interest in such a service. Cook’s comments from an earnings call earlier this year:
The mobile payments area in general is one we’ve been intrigued with. It was one of the thoughts behind Touch ID […] it’s a big opportunity …
Later in the year, Cook noted the number of iTunes accounts with credit cards Apple holds when asked about the potential for such a service.
Apple is expected to unveil two new iPhones on September 9th alongside its long rumored wearable product thus far referred to as called iWatch.
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Ahh I miss this. Every year, the ninth before release date is awash with rumours and leaks. I love it!
Some key things missing: Where’s the leaked NFC antenna coil flex board? We have various other flex board leaks but no antenna coil. How will NFC work with an Aluminium unibody iPhone?
iPhone 5 rumour déjà vu.
I hope we do finally get it, because if Apple do it, they’ll do it for a really good reason and I can’t wait to find out what that is. Though we’ll have to put up with everyone saying ‘well my android has had it since 1958’.
Looking likely (though not certain since it’s been rumored for a few years now) that this will pan out. It’s going to be a big year for Apple and it’s users!
I still don’t buy it. I hope it’s true and think it will be eventually but not this year. I think Apple is going to push HealthBook as the tentpole feature this year and save NFC for at least the 7.
Is that thick piping element a real design element? An attempt to mimic fashion trends from the 1840s?
Apple has been looking at using NFC chips as a way to wireless charge devices. Maybe NFC in the iPhone will help charge the iWatch.