More than half of UK smartphone users would welcome NFC

Just over half of British smartphone users would welcome the introduction of NFC payment services on their mobile phone, according to a new survey by the company behind the MyVoucherCodes website.

Markco chairman Mark Pearson
PEARSON: “Only a matter of time” before NFC payments arrive

Two fifths of the 1,267 respondents also stated that they would like to see the technology on tablet computers, such as the iPad.

However, just under two fifths claimed that they don’t want the technology to be introduced in the UK, with the majority citing security concerns and others fearing losing control over their finances.

Mark Pearson, chairman of web marketer Markco Media, said it was “only a matter of time” before the technology became available and that the fears surrounding security were only the same as those felt before the introduction of chip-and-pin cards.

“Most technology is created with an aim to make life easier, and NFC technology is really a means of making the system for purchasing goods more efficient,” he said.

“While it may seem an odd concept at the moment, I am sure that in years to come we’ll all be swiping our handsets at the till, wondering what we did before.”

The results of the survey included:

  • 53% claimed that they would “welcome” NFC;
  • 27% stated they felt “unsure” about the ability to purchase items with a mobile phone;
  • 18% claimed they “don’t want” the technology to be introduced in the UK;
  • 39% stated they would like to see the technology on tablet computers, such as the iPad.

Of those who welcomed NFC:

  • 67% stated they would welcome the technology because they believed it would make purchasing “more convenient”;
  • 19% said they would welcome the technology because it would “reduce the need to constantly carry cards and/or cash”.

Of those who did not want NFC:

  • 59% said they were concerned about the “safety risks” involved in contactless payment
  • 14% explained they felt the technology may lead to a “lack of control” over the monitoring of their finances.

Next: Visit the NFCW Expo to find new suppliers and solutions