According to Bloomberg, Apple is planning to introduce near field communication (NFC) to the next version of the iPhone as well as the iPad, like Google has done with its Nexus S.

 

NFC is a fast, versatile short-range wireless technology that enables data to be sent and received across a distance of about 10 cm, enables a user’s smartphone to be employed as a debit/credit card, by holding it near a NFC-enabled payment point. 

 

This integration of NFC hardware would enable the Cupertino-based company to utilise the information it already has on users of Apple products (via their iTunes accounts) such as bank info, iTunes gift-card balance etc., in order to allow them to substitute normal payment options, including Visa or MasterCard debit/credit cards, with their future iOS-powered device. This would allow the company to cut costs by not having to pay out credit card processing fees for purchases made from iTunes.

 

The basis for the reports emanate from the fact that Cupertino hired NFC expert Benjamin Vigier last year as a product manager for their Mobile Commerce division, while also filing various NFC patent applications.  

 

Apple also recently announced that it has surpassed the 10 billion mark in apps downloaded from its App Store.