Isis will likely launch its mobile payment service in August in two US cities, according to CNet, which also said the joint venture will offer NFC-based Android and BlackBerry handsets to consumers alongside devices that can be attached to handsets (including the iPhone) to give them NFC capability.

The joint venture between AT&T, Verizon Wireless and T-Mobile USA has previously said it would launch its service this summer in the two US cities of Salt Lake City, Utah, and Austin, Texas, so an August date is not so surprising.

Last year Isis said RIM and a range of Android vendors (Samsung, HTC, LG, Motorola Mobility and Sony Ericsson) had all agreed to introduce NFC-based handsets for its services. So the current report is consistent with the previous statement. The Samsung Galaxy S III is arguably the most high profile, recent NFC launch.

Having an adequate supply line of NFC handsets is seen as a potential pitfall for mobile operators. Earlier this year Isis CEO Michael Abbott said the three operators had made a “significant commitment” to ensure a range of NFC handsets are available for consumers this year.

The report also talks about Isis offering an NFC-based sleeve for devices such as the iPhone. Last year the joint venture announced it was working with Device Fidelity, which specialises in such devices, so again what is said in the report is not surprising.