JCB to explore commercialisation of UWB payments

Smartphones with UWB functions are widely available in Japan, JCB said.

JCB Co., Ltd. has partnered with Resona Holdings in a project to commercialise ultra-wideband (UWB) payments.

The Japanese card and payment network provider plans to launch small-scale commercial operations by 2027, and full-scale commercialisation by 2028.

UWB payments makes use of short-range wireless communication technology for accurate location of devices and high-speed data communication. It is currently being used for location verification of digital keys for cars and homes, indoor navigation, tags, and in some gateless public transportation systems.

Smartphones with UWB functions are widely available in Japan, JCB noted in its press release.

Under their partnership, JCB and Resona plan to launch a full-scale project for the practical application and commercialisation of UWB payments.

JCB said it will work with multiple technology partners and collaborating merchants to demonstrate this payment technology as well as user experience building projects.