Banking

In the UK, folks making contactless (NFC) card payments at stores and supermarkets are limited on how much they can ring up at the checkouts. But for a few NatWest customers that limit is set to disappear, as the bank launches a trial for using biometric authentication when making card payments.

It's easier than ever to go cashless these days, but one there's one group that still relies on the cash – kids. To make it easier for parents who struggle to come up with the cash when chores are completed or allowance time rolls around, Current has released an app-controlled Visa debit card.

Tired of having to remember PINs, or having a wallet full of plastic cards? Well, if EyeLock has its way, you eventually won't have to. It's created an ATM that has no keypad, card reader or screen. Known as the Irving concept, it utilizes an iris scanner and an app instead.​

British firm Intelligent Environments has created Emoji Passcode, which helps you log into your bank using emoji. Swapping numbers for emoji reportedly makes your PIN code easier to remember but harder to crack. It's also a lot more fun.

NearBytes technology that uses sound to bring NFC-like capabilities to non NFC-capable devices has now found a commercial application in the form of the Edgepay POS terminal that allows card-free payment of goods and services using a mobile phone.

Nine mobile network operators across 48 countries in Africa and the Middle East have signed on to the GSMA’s Mobile Money Interoperability program in a bid to develop and implement convenient and affordable mobile phone-based financial services across the regions.

Banking technology company FIS has developed a system that is claimed to streamline the cash-getting process. Known as Cardless Cash Access, it allows people to get money from ATMs within seconds, using nothing but their smartphone.

Brazil’s Edra Equipamentos has developed an eco-friendly ATM booth crafted from environmentally friendly raw materials.

A Japanese bank is set to introduce ATMs with biometric technology that will allow customers to access their accounts with a scan of their palms - no card required.

NCR is putting the "teller" back in the automated teller machine with the unveiling of an ATM with integrated two-way video conferencing that lets users talk live with a remote teller through the ATM.

Research company Juniper has drawn up a list of predictions for the mobile and wireless industry for 2011 and they portray humanity hurtling headlong towards a mobile-centric lifestyle.

Digital security provider Gimalto has introduced the Ezio Thin Reader, a credit card-sized authentication device for online banking.