OTI gets MasterCard approval for Wave NFC add-on

Contactless technology specialist On Track Innovations (OTI) has received MasterCard Mobile PayPass certification for Wave Dongle, an add-on that plugs into the audio jack of a standard mobile device to provide users with NFC payments capabilities.

STANDALONE: Wave Dongle can be loaded with funds and used as an NFC keyfob

The Wave "connects to the smartphone's operating system via the audio jack, allowing for PIN code authentication and over-the-air capabilities such as reloading electronic cash, remote personalization, firmware updates, and new applications," OTI says.

"OTI's Wave can be used for electronic payment transactions even when disconnected from a customer's device," the company adds. "When the pre-paid balance is running low, the Wave can simply plug into a smartphone to add additional money into the Wave's e-purse."

Nokia unveils Windows tablet with NFC

POWER UP: A keyboard with extra battery capacity can be attached to the Lumia 2520

Nokia has shown off the Lumia 2520, a 10.1-inch Windows 8.1 RT tablet that includes NFC and features 4G LTE and WiFi as well as a 6.7 megapixel camera with a Zeiss lens.

A long life battery will charge from empty to 80% in an hour, Nokia says. The tablet will be available before the end of 2013, initially in the US, UK and Finland, with a price tag of US$499.

Nokia launches Lumia 1520 NFC phone

Nokia has unveiled the Lumia 1520, a Windows Phone 8 'phablet' with NFC and a 6-inch Full HD display that makes it possible to view a third column of tiles on the start screen.

The device also includes a 20 megapixel camera, Microsoft Office and Qi wireless charging.

The Lumia 1520 will be available worldwide before the end of the year at around US$749.