Disney is reportedly in the process of installing NFC-reading payment systems in its stores ahead of Tuesday's iPhone 6 launch.
It's expected that Apple's iPhone 6 will feature NFC technology when it's unveiled on September 9. This would permit Apple to enter the mobile payment race - either belatedly or right on time, depending on your perspective.
While we won't know for sure whether this is true for another day or so, an interesting report emerged from 9to5Mac over the weekend.
Apparently, Disney is in the process of fitting out its entire chain of retail stores with NFC payment equipment.
The fact that this comes mere days ahead of the iPhone 6 launch could be classed as mere coincidence, or even as Disney responding to widespread tittle-tattle concerning the next iPhone's capabilities. If you were being particularly dense, that is.
Far more likely is the idea that Disney knows something that we don't. The company has close and historic ties with Apple, with CEO Bob Iger sitting on the Apple board.
Add this to reports that McDonalds has also begun fitting out some of its restaurants with NFC equipment, and an Apple push into mobile payments looks nailed on - if it didn't already.
Interestingly, the report also claims that Apple is in the process of upgrading its in-store iBeacon technology, which enables company employees to pinpoint customers within their stores. These new models will be even more accurate, which will apparently be useful in securely accepting mobile payments.
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