NFC, for those out of the loop, is "near-field communication", a short-range protocol that allows sensitive data to be exchanged wirelessly - kind of like those magnetic cards that you might use to get into high-tech buildings. So instead of bungling around your wallet or panhandling for loose change, you can just use your Nokia phone to purchase that bag of chips. (sorry, shamelessly copied from old entry)

The participants in the field test will each receive a Nokia 6131 NFC Edition phone, and 200 GBP of spending money to "test" the Barclaycard payment application at places such as Krispy Kreme, Books Etc., YO! Sushi, and countless others.

The phone will also be able to pay for Tube travel as well as read NFC-compatible "smart posters" that automatically dial a number or open up the web browser for more information.

I'd love see NFC get started here across the Atlantic, but it doesn't seem likely in the NF (near future).

Tags: 6131, nfc, nokia

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