NFC to push US mobile sales past $800bn

Colossal projection based on the fact that almost half of American smartphone users want tap-to-pay on their devices.

Digital researcher Parks Associates claims NFC mobile wallets will become a standard smartphone feature in the near future in response to the hunger for the tech among consumers.

The report says nearly 50 per cent of US smartphone owners are attracted to the idea of a NFC mobile wallet as 16 per cent currently use PayPal and other e-wallet options to make purchases.

These are contributing factors, which provide the opportunity for m-commerce to surpass a staggering $800 billion in 2015 boosting business for network retailers, providers and more, according to the report.

Harry Wang, director, mobile research, Parks Associates, said: "The convenience of e-wallet solutions, specifically for eliminating the need to carry multiple or any credit cards, is driving the majority of consumer interest.

"We are witnessing a groundswell of activities. Google recently launched its Wallet app, and Isis, a joint venture between AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon, expanded its business model to include more payment partners. Each deal signals serious interest to build scale and technology advantage over competing solutions."