The biggest pain points of the mobile terminal on some devices are 1) the unclear location where the mobile phone is able to read payment cards and 2) the signal strength on some models. If these things can be improved, the mobile terminal has a chance to completely replace traditional payment terminals.
Another boost for the mobile terminal (often referred to as SoftPOS – software point of sale, Czech: software payment terminal) is the new NFC15 standard, which defines a new level of reading quality through NFC (near field communication, Czech: communication with the surrounding area) technology. This NFC 15 standard will have the greatest impact on SoftPOS solutions, i.e. accepting payments directly on the mobile without a physical payment terminal. This works today, but has its limits – the customer has to place the card in a precise place, which can be uncomfortable.
What you get with the new standard:
- The customer will not have to search for the correct zone on the phone
- It will probably be easier to attach the card to any part of the back of the phone
- SoftPOS will become a more intuitive alternative to traditional terminals
- It will enable wider use in mobile services, delivery, taxis, festivals or small businesses
Once phone and OS manufacturers support NFC Release 15, SoftPOS will move from a „technical compromise“ to a full-fledged replacement for a classic terminal for most merchants. However, the new standard does not only bring improvements in payments.
New opportunities opened by the standard
In addition to payments, NFC Release 15 opens up space for other innovations:
• digital keys (cars, hotels, houses) with more convenient unlocking
• easier device pairing – watches, speakers, wearables
• development of IoT and access systems
For banks, fintech companies and payment service providers, this means the opportunity to build simpler and more user-friendly products.
Summary
NFC Release 15 is not just a technical update. It is a key step towards simplifying and accelerating contactless interactions, which will significantly improve the convenience of both customers and merchants. We can expect that within a few years, the adoption of SoftPOS solutions will increase and mobile phones will become the dominant platform for accepting payments.
Are you interested in the current offer of mobile terminals on the Czech market? Here it is:
