Earlier this year, it was reported that Orange would be collaborating with Barclaycard for launching NFC payment service in the
country. Well, now the wait is over as the service has gone live now. The service will use "Quick Tap" system and currently you will be able to use the service for purchases up to £15 only. However, various stores such as Subway and Eat have already installed contactless readers at their outlets so now you can use this service at over 50,000 stores countrywide.
However, this mobile wallet service is currently available only on the handsets which are Quick-Tab enabled. Orange is offering a PAYG phone Samsung Tocco Lite for this purpose, so the service is kind of limited. However, Orange assures that it would be launching a wide range of compatible phones soon. Tocco Lite is currently available for £59.99, with two year contract.
Basically, you need to have an app which you will have to preload with funds. The app will also provide information regarding your purchases so you do not go around splurging. With recent security breaches, you are justified in worrying about security, but Orange and Barclaycard assure that they have thoroughly checked their system. For extra layer of security it also lets users employ PIN system on their mobile before authorizing each payment. Quick Tap transactions will also be covered by 100 percent fraud guarantee, a regular feature offered by Barclays on its card transactions.
Barclaycard is currently offering £10 bonus on activating the service, as promotional scheme. Also, it will refund 10 percent of all your purchases made using the system. This refund scheme will apply to the purchases made during the first three months. So, go on and Tap some cash.