Google is today expected to unveil to a new “digital wallet” feature in the US, letting consumers pay for items using their smartphone rather than credit cards.
The feature will be powered by near-field communications technology, which allows devices to transmit data from about four inches apart.
The service will be available on US mobile network Sprint, according to a Bloomberg report.
Near-field technology and similar advances may be the next frontier of commerce.
The technology lets people pay at NFC-equipped cash registers with a flick of their phone, to boost revenue from mobile advertising and discounts.
The next version of the iPhone is rumored to include some type of mobile payment technology and companies such as Boston-based AisleBuyer LLC are scrambling to get first crack at negotiations with retailers. Google representatives did not return messages seeking comment.