Contactless Payments
Contactless payments is a technology that enables secure, wireless transactions using near-field communication (NFC) or radio-frequency identification (RFID) between a payment device (like a smartphone, smartwatch, or contactless card) and a point-of-sale terminal. It allows users to make purchases by simply tapping or waving their device near a reader, without physical contact or swiping, enhancing convenience and speed in retail, transportation, and other payment scenarios. This system relies on encryption and tokenization to protect sensitive payment data during transmission.
Developers should learn contactless payments to build or integrate payment solutions in mobile apps, e-commerce platforms, and IoT devices, as it's increasingly standard in retail, public transit, and event ticketing for its fast, hygienic, and user-friendly experience. It's essential for roles in fintech, mobile development, and security-focused projects, where implementing NFC APIs, handling payment gateways, and ensuring PCI DSS compliance are common requirements. Use cases include developing digital wallets (like Apple Pay or Google Pay), point-of-sale systems, and secure authentication methods.