The microchip implant that turns you into a contactless cash card
22 July 2019
Contactless card payments have become commonplace since their introduction in Britain in 2007. And more recently they’ve expanded from cards to many of our smartphones.
Some people, however, have taken the convenience of contactless a stage further: they’ve had microchips implanted into their hands.
Are microchips the future of cashless payment?
Swedish 'Biohacking' firms are introducing microchips 鈥� a bid towards a cashless society.
Hanna from Sweden had a microchip the size of a grain of rice implanted into her hand – at a cost of around £150 – and believes her reasons for undergoing the procedure will resonate with many people.
“For me, it was about curiosity but also about convenience: you never forget yourself – so you can never forget your key and you can never forget your tram card.”
The lead biohacking firm in Sweden has inserted chips into about 5,000 people; the technology industry is following the technology’s development.
“My mum said I was crazy, but people in the tech world are excited and want to learn more.”
More contactless cash stories
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The contactless payment jacket
A new jacket allows the wearer to make contactless payments with the cuffs.
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Has contactless changed things?
Are banks tightening security since the start of contactless card payments in 2007?
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Will our future be cashless?
Is cash a thing of the past, or will it remain a vital part of our future?
Would you consider getting fitted with a microchip?
Microchip implants have the potential to open doors, hold information and make contactless payments. (From 2018)
Even dogs use contactless
Assistance dog Ethan can fetch and return things for his owner and has even mastered contactless payment cards.
How safe is contactless payment?
What you should know about making a contactless payment. (From 2016)
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