A sticker that can turn anything into a contactless payment device is among new wearable technology to be launched by Barclaycard’s bPay on July 1.
The £14.99 sticker, which can be placed on any flat surface, works with the credit card provider’s bPay digital wallet, which is pre-loaded with cash via a new online portal or multi-platform app.
Barclaycard is also launching a £19.99 contactless bPay key fob, which can be attached to a bag or keyring, and has redesigned the bPay wristband, which was originally launched last June and costs £24.99.
Outdoor retailer Snow + Rock will be the first retailer to stock the products from August, including in selected CycleSurgery and Runners Need stores. It is the first time a Barclaycard product has been available on the high street.
bPay is open to consumers with a registered Visa or Mastercard debit or credit card, even if they are not Barclays customers. It is also open to children over the age of 12 years. The devices and software are free to use with no transaction or top-up fees, including when used abroad.
Mike Saunders, managing director of digital consumer payments at Barclaycard, said the new devices have been developed in reaction to consumer feedback.
He added: “The launch of our bPay band last year was an evolutionary step for the business, with highly positive customer feedback. People told us they are looking for new ways to pay that offer greater flexibility and choice, and fit better with different lifestyles.”
The launch of the new devices comes ahead of next month’s launch of Apple Pay in the UK. Barclays is the only major bank not to support the payment system.
According to the UK Cards Association, contactless payments rose by 331% year on year in 2014 as the UK fully embraced digital payments, with 319 million transactions made using contactless technology.
The contactless payment limit is due to be raised from £20 to £30 this September.
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