Visa Approves BlackBerry NFC Mobile Payments Solution

Visa has approved Research In Motion’s Secure Element Manager (SEM) solution, which will enable mobile payments on Blackberrys as well as any NFC-outfitted device. “It will enable carriers to support Visa-issuing banks and financial institutions,” says RIM’s Frank Maduri. “We now offer carriers a robust solution with around-the-clock global support that works on any NFC-capable device and meets the stringent technology and usability guidelines for Visa.” SEM is one element RIM is implementing in preparation for its unveiling of the BlackBerry 10 platform and smartphones on Jan. 30. The refreshed platform’s debut represents the company’s bid to maintain its relevance to enterprises while also appealing to consumers with a flashy consumer experience. RIM CEO Thorsten Heins says the company will announce BlackBerry 10 release dates with many of its carrier partners on Jan. 30. Analysts have high expectations for the mobile payment market, although Apple’s refusal to include NFC in its iPhone 5 has dampened hopes somewhat. However, Samsung, the leading smartphone manufacturer, is backing NFC payments in its devices.
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