14 DAY TRIAL // Japanese developers always surprise us with their ideas that make the ground shake when it comes to things that we considered not possible. They are now looking for a method that could be applied in the future: using the handset owner's own body to make electronic payments with a simple touch.
Using the human body for electronic communication is something that sounds like a SF capability. Still, this proves to be a great medium for such transfers. The new technology allows the user to unlock doors, make payments and transfer data by simply touching the other device or person.
NTT DoCoMo, the leading telecom operator in Japan is the company behind this initiative. It looks like the technology has reached an evolved level, as the developers have already presented a prototype of the device. The phone uses a sensor made by start-up Kaiser Technology company and sends electric signals through the human body to transmit data at the touch of a finger.
An NTT DoCoMo spokesman showed the great amount of possibilities that such a technology would manage to bring. Users could open secure doors without having to take out the handset from his pocket, as the ID information would be transmitted through the feet. The car could also automatically adjust its seat to some predefined settings only by touching the wheel and the list could go on.
Electronic payment through mobile phones is extremely common in Japan and many handsets on the market are capable of providing this service. NTT DoCoMo said that it might take several years until the new technology is out on the market. Until then, the testing will go on, to make sure it is as safe and reliable as possible. It's a great concept on its way to becoming a fact, as in the future, a handshake might also trigger some picture or money transfers.