The latest version of Android, called KitKat, introduces a new platform for secure NFC-based transactions via Host Card Emulation including payments, loyalty programmes, card access and transport passes.
With card emulation, the idea is that any app on an Android device can behave like an NFC-based smart card. Users can tap to initiate a transaction via an app without the need for a provisioned secure element in the device itself.
Apps can also use a new reader mode to act as readers for Host Card Emulation-based cards and other NFC-based transactions.
Richard Handford
Richard is the editor of Mobile World Live’s money channel and a contributor to the daily news service. He is an experienced technology and business journalist who previously worked as a freelancer for many publications over the last decade including...
