Smart Card Market is anticipated to grow further up to USD 18.6 Billion by 2032

The global Smart Card market was valued at USD 5.4 Billion in 2021 and it is anticipated to grow up to USD 18.6 Billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 13.2% during the forecast period.

A smart card is a type of card that has an embedded integrated circuit chip. This chip can be either a microprocessor or a memory chip. The smart card can be either a contact card or a contactless card. The microprocessor chip on the card can be programmed to perform various functions, such as storing data, processing data, and providing security.

The smart card can be used for a variety of purposes, such as identification, authentication, and payment. Smart cards are commonly used in credit cards, debit cards, and identity cards.

One of the key restraints of the smart card market is the high cost of deployment and maintenance of smart card infrastructure. In order to deploy a smart card infrastructure, organizations need to invest in expensive hardware and software, which can be a challenge for small and medium enterprises. In addition, smart card infrastructure requires ongoing maintenance and support, which can add to the overall cost. Another challenge facing the smart card market is the lack of standardization. There are a number of different smart card technologies available, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages.

National Payments Corporation of India launches NFC-enabled QR codes

The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has recently introduced a range of United Payments Interface (UPI) services.

UPI Tap & Pay NFC-enabled QR codes: Consumers can pay for in-store purchases by tapping their NFC device instead of scanning the QR code itself.

The NFC-enabled UPI Lite X digital wallet allows users to send and receive money even when offline, making it possible to initiate and execute transactions in areas with poor connectivity, such as underground stations and remote areas.

These services aim to enhance the convenience and accessibility of digital payments in India.

Klika Tech Achieves the AWS Smart City Competency

Klika Tech, a global technology solutions and consulting firm that specializes in delivering cloud computing, Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML), and embedded systems solutions, has achieved the Amazon Web Services (AWS) Smart City Competency in the category of Urban Data Platforms and Insights.

Achieving the AWS Smart City Competency designation differentiates Klika Tech as an AWS Partner Network (APN) member that has demonstrated technical proficiency and proven customer success supporting city governments and city developers who are witnessing an unprecedented rate of urban growth. Klika Tech is equipped to handle challenges for building smarter municipalities and more environmentally sustainable cities.

As cities grow, they will require technology solutions that improve urban planning, infrastructure, sustainable resource management, and city governance. From smart water metering for utilities to enhanced mobility via e-bike rentals, and from electric vehicle (EV)-charging solutions to smart wheelchairs, Klika Tech is making significant contributions to smarter and more sustainable cities and communities.

Klika Tech collaborates and co-creates with clients and partners to architect, build and deploy cutting-edge solutions, powered by AWS, transforming cities and communities into more accessible, sustainable, and livable spaces for their residents. By utilizing some of the most advanced technologies, we help cities enhance the efficiency of utilities, conserve resources, improve transportation systems, streamline the management of social infrastructure, reduce costs, and foster an increased level of citizen engagement.

Subeca, an IoT company focused on water management technology, realized that Amazon Sidewalk would help them deliver on their strategy in a unique and innovative way. Utilizing STMicroelectronics' software ecosystem and support, Subeca worked with AWS Partner Klika Tech and STMicroelectronics to quickly develop Subeca's Amazon Sidewalk-enabled systems around STM32 wireless SoCs. The result is an AWS-powered solution that offers water utilities a simplified user experience, substantial cost savings, and improved efficiency.

An authorized partner in STMicroelectronics' Partner Program, Klika Tech uses the STM32 family of microcontrollers and other ST products to help customers reduce development efforts and accelerate time to market.

AWS is enabling scalable, flexible, and cost-effective solutions from startups to global enterprises. To support the seamless integration and deployment of these solutions, the AWS Competency Program helps customers identify which AWS Partner solutions and services are powered by AWS for specific industry use cases. For a specific industry solution to meet a need, explore the AWS Partner solutions and/or services offered in AWS Data Exchange, AWS Marketplace, or APN Partners, including Klika Tech.

Apple goes live with Tap to Pay on iPhone in Brazil

Merchants in Brazil can now accept contactless payments on their iPhone without the need for additional hardware,. The Tap to Pay on iPhone feature is available to payment platforms and app developers in Brazil, allowing them to integrate it into their iOS apps and offer the payment option to their business customers.

CloudWalk is one of the payment platforms that currently offers Tap to Pay on iPhone for its Brazilian business customers, and other platforms such as Granito, Nubank, Stone, and SumUp will be available soon1.

Tap to Pay on iPhone has enabled businesses of all sizes, from freelancers to large retailers, to offer new payment experiences1. Apple’s vice president of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet, Jennifer Bailey, expressed excitement about bringing an easy, secure, and private payment solution to Brazilian merchants. This development allows companies in Brazil to accept contactless payments at all their locations.

RFID expands the potential for checkout-free technology to clothing, softlines, fan gear, and more.

From the day we Amazon opened its Just Walk Out technology store in 2018, shoppers told them how magical they find checkout-free shopping.

Customers love being able to grab what they need and get on their way without having to wait in line, and store owners and retail operators have embraced the cost-efficiency and revenue-driving benefits of Just Walk Out technology. Just Walk Out technology uses cameras, shelf sensors, sensor fusion, and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, like computer vision and generative AI to enable retailers to sell a wide range of products, such as food, beverages, groceries, home goods, and more.

At computer vision-based checkout-free stores, products are arranged on shelves or tables so the system can see which items are being taken. This means products like clothing need to be packaged in bags or boxes—but that’s not always the way people shop for soft goods. Customers want to see clothing on hangers, pick them up, feel the fabric, try them on, and may even return the items to other shelves or locations in the store.

Given its prevalence in retail supply chains, Amazon decided to figure out a way RFID could benefit customers in a checkout-free environment. And what we came up with is a new type of Just Walk Out technology store where customers can grab clothes, hats, shoes, and more—and simply walk out of the store through an exit gate (even while wearing their purchases) by tapping their credit or debit card, or hovering their palm over an Amazon One palm recognition device.

Amazon first piloted Just Walk Out technology with RFID at Climate Pledge Arena, in Seattle, Washington, for a few games at the end of Seattle Kraken’s ice hockey season earlier this year. It has now launched the technology at Lumen Field, home of the NFL’s Seattle Seahawks. During the 2023-24 NFL season, fans can grab their Seahawks gear at the new Seahawks Pro Shop Outlet located in the northwest corner of the stadium’s field level.

Every item for sale in the store has a unique RFID tag, which looks similar to a standard apparel tag. Customers simply enter the store, take what they like, and leave through the exit gate by using their credit or debit card, or hovering their palm over an Amazon One device. When they pass through the exit gate, the RFID tags in their clothing and other apparel are read by RFID readers, and the credit card they use to exit (or the payment information linked to their Amazon One profile) will be charged.

Wiliot Previews the Possibilities for 5G Advanced at MWC Las Vegas 2023

Wiliot, the Internet of Things pioneer whose ambient IoT Visibility Platform is enabling trillions of 'things' to gain intelligence, announced that it is debuting to the mobile market, at MWC Las Vegas 2023, an enhanced version of its Wiliot Cloud and IoT Pixels.

The new platform now includes the breakthrough ability to sense and analyze humidity levels of individual products – and cases of products – in real-time, throughout the supply chain.

By adding humidity sensing to the company's Visibility Platform—on top of Wiliot's existing temperature and location sensing and carbon emissions measurement—Wiliot has made it possible for companies to better ensure the safety, integrity, freshness, and sustainability of moisture-sensitive products – end-to-end and at unprecedented scale. Previously, item and case-level sensing for consumable products over carrier networks has not been possible at scale.

The Wiliot Visibility Platform marks the earliest example of ambient IoT at scale, combining Wiliot's revolutionary, self-powered IoT Pixels and Wiliot Cloud-based analytics to create unparalleled visibility into supply chains, distribution, retail operations, and much more. This capability is set to revolutionize the telecommunications industry when it becomes standardized in 5G Advanced and 6G.

Wiliot is a member of 3GPP and participant in 5G and 6G working groups. Leveraging its unique experience pioneering the technology, Wiliot has contributed alongside the giants of the industry to defining the requirements of ambient IoT in emerging applications.

Samsung lets Galaxy foldable phone users customise their device using NFC

Users of selected Samsung Galaxy foldable smartphones, including the Galaxy Z Flip 5, can now personalize their phone screens with an NFC-enabled insert. This insert allows them to coordinate the on-screen design with accessories from Samsung’s Eco-Friends range. These accessories are made using a minimum of 40% recycled materials and feature designs from Disney, Marvel, Minions, Pokémon, and popular K-pop artists1.

Samsung’s Eco-Friends accessories can be coordinated with foldable phone screens through near-field communication (NFC) technology and QR codes. This feature enables users to express themselves with a cohesive design from case to screen. The exclusive Flipsuit case for the Galaxy Z Flip 5 includes an NFC-based Flipsuit card that automatically plays screen themes when inserted into the product.

By replacing the Flipsuit card provided by Samsung Eco-Friends, customers can easily set the screen theme according to their preferences1.

The Eco-Friends range of accessories is available in over 40 countries, including South Korea, China, the Netherlands, Singapore, South Africa, UAE, and the US.

Brigade Electronics to showcase its safety solutions at The Utility Expo 2023

Brigade Electronics – a provider of safety solutions for the utility industry - will be showcasing its range of products for vehicles and machinery at The Utility Expo in Louisville, KY between September 26th and 28th.

Brigade will also be demonstrating its RFID Detection System, ZoneSafe.

Designed for use in challenging environments, such as warehouses, construction sites, manufacturing sites, trash sites, airports, and distribution centers, ZoneSafe uses vehicle-mounted antennas that communicate with detection tags, which can be worn by workers, set up in restricted areas or placed on objects or property.

When a tag enters a detection zone, the vehicle operator will automatically receive a visual and audible alert via the in-cab control unit, which will enable them to take the necessary action. Tags worn by workers on foot will also vibrate to warn of an approaching vehicle.

Socket Mobile Announces CaptureSDK Support for iOS 17

Socket Mobile, a provider of data capture and delivery solutions designed to enhance workplace productivity, has announced that CaptureSDK and its entire line of barcode scanners and NFC reader/writers have been thoroughly tested and have achieved full compatibility with iOS 17.

Mobile product line ensures that Apple iPhone users can maximize the utility of both their Socket Mobile device and their Bluetooth-paired Apple device. Socket Mobile ensures their devices stay up-to-date and compatible with the latest Apple updates. With the latest addition of iOS 17, users can be assured that their tools will continue to perform to their fullest capabilities.

CaptureSDK has been integrated into thousands of applications across a variety of industries, helping create easy-to-use software tools for optimal performance and efficiency.

Implementing CaptureSDK allows application providers to utilize any of Socket Mobile's family of data capture devices (barcode scanners or NFC reader/writers) interchangeably and select the best data reader for each customer's requirements. With iOS 17 compatibility, Socket's CaptureSDK delivers a new level of control and adaptability for iOS app developers.

Wiliot Introduces Real-Time Humidity Sensing to its Ambient IoT Visibility Platform

Wiliot, the Internet of Things pioneer whose ambient IoT Visibility Platform is enabling trillions of "things" to gain intelligence, announced it has achieved the breakthrough ability to sense and analyze humidity levels of individual products, in real-time, throughout the supply chain.

By adding humidity sensing to the company's Visibility Platform—on top of Wiliot's existing temperature, location, and carbon emissions sensing capabilities—Wiliot has made it possible for companies to better ensure the safety, integrity, freshness, and sustainability of moisture-sensitive products – end-to-end and at unprecedented scale.

Wiliot's ability to enable continuous monitoring down to the product level is unlike any traceability technology available today.

The Wiliot Visibility Platform connects the digital and physical worlds through the Wiliot Cloud and Wiliot IoT Pixels, which are low-cost, self-powered, mass-manufactured postage stamp-sized compute devices affixed to products and packaging.

IoT Pixels continuously and automatically transmit data to the Wiliot Cloud via standard Bluetooth devices, greatly reducing the staffing and operational cost of traditional tracking methodologies, while also reducing error rates, waste, mis-shipments, mis-picks and out-of-stocks.

By using the latest technology to efficiently connect any item to the internet and embedding it with intelligence and awareness, companies can create more efficient, profitable, and sustainable supply chains.

Top 10 IoT semiconductor design and technology trends

Amid this complicated market, the IoT revenue share for major semiconductor companies has generally increased in recent years and, for many large chip companies, is now bigger than 10%, in some cases even bigger than 20% of their revenue.

The latest IoT Analytics’ IoT Chipset and IoT Module Trends Report 2023 report provides numerous examples of individual IoT trends that can be observed in the current market environment.

A number of general trends are currently driving the market back up, including:

The growing demand for AI chipsets
The need for greater, even global, IoT connectivity that is modular and scalable
The desire to move data analysis and storage closer to the edge
The drive for smaller chip design with efficient cooling

China to launch revamped ‘smart’ green card

According to the National Immigration Administration, China will launch a new version of its smart card for foreign permanent residents.

The card will make it more convenient for them to buy train and airline tickets and make online orders.

The first smart cards were issued in 2017, and the new version will be launched on December 1, 2023. The card is accepted as legal proof of identity and can be used by itself to book hotels and tickets without needing a passport.

The administration said it would work with different departments to expand the areas where the card could be used.

Budapest pilots contactless fare payments on airport shuttle bus

Budapesti Közlekedési Központ (BKK) has started testing an open loop contactless fare payment system on the 100E airport shuttle bus in Budapest.

Passengers can pay their fares by tapping an onboard validator with their physical or digital debit or credit card. They are not required to register in an app or on another online interface, nor are they required to hold a paper-based ticket until the end of their trip.

BKK announced in November 2022 that it was planning to test open loop contactless ticketing on the airport shuttle bus and BKK launched the BudapestGO Mobility-as-a-Service app in February the same year.

Green Technology and Sustainability Market Driven by Increasing use of RFID sensors

The potential growth difference for the green technology and sustainability market between 2022 and 2026 is USD 26.10 billion. The increasing use of RFID sensors across industries drives market growth. IoT is used to handle a wide range of applications such as smart grid, eHealth, and intelligent transportation. Tasks can be completed autonomously with the help of sensors and smart devices connected via high-speed data. This necessitates new forms of green communication between different smart devices, which improve power consumption and bandwidth usage. Smart devices can also automate operations across the production cycle, from irrigation and fertilization to controlling bugs or pests.

RFID tag and sensor collaboration might lead to various new green project solutions, including efficient energy generation, waste management, and recycling. Such factors are expected to fuel the growth of the market in focus. Get deeper insights into the market size, current market scenario, future growth opportunities, major growth driving factors, the latest trends, and much more. Buy the full report here

By product, the solution segment will have significant market share growth during the forecast period. Emerging technologies are offering new opportunities for green technology and sustainable development. Therefore, the increasing awareness regarding technology-related environmental hazards is driving the adoption of green technology and sustainability solutions across the world. This, in turn, will fuel the growth of the green technology and sustainability market during the forecast period.

31% of the market's growth originates from North America during the forecast period.

Contactless Payment Market to Reach $12,476.6 Billion

According to the report, the global contactless payment industry generated $2.4 trillion in 2022, and is anticipated to generate $ 12.5 trillion by 2032, witnessing a CAGR of 18.3% from 2023 to 2032.

Contactless payments have become very popular, especially since the pandemic. It is a secure method for consumers to buy goods and services using a debit, credit, smartcard, or another payment device.

Surge in demand for mobile & wearable payment devices, rise in adoption of contactless payments among merchants, and numerous benefits provided by contactless payments fuel the contactless payment market growth. However, difficulties in the replacement process of POS terminal and security issues associated with technology are expected to hamper the market growth. On the contrary, integration of IoT in contactless payment technology and untapped potential of emerging economies are some of the factors expected to create lucrative opportunities for the contactless payments market growth in the upcoming years.

The COVID-19 pandemic positively impacted the contactless payments market. The pandemic across the globe prompted widespread changes in consumer behavior and preferences, accelerating the adoption of contactless payments.

The fear of virus transmission through physical contact prompted a shift away from traditional payment methods such as cash and chip-and-pin cards. Furthermore, many governments and health organizations encouraged the use of contactless payments to reduce the spread of the virus. This resulted in increased awareness and promotion of contactless transactions, driving its adoption.

Based on device type, the smartphones and wearables segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for nearly three-fifths of the global contactless payment industry revenue, and is estimated to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period, owing to the rising penetration of smartphone devices used for making payments among the youth population across the globe. The use of digital wallets for making contactless payments through smartphones has increased the usage of smartphones in everyday tasks and activities. Furthermore, innovations in wearables, such as payment watches for making contactless payments, are expected to propel the segment's growth. However, the smart cards segment is projected to manifest the highest CAGR of 21.0% from 2023 to 2032, owing to the growing adoption of contactless cards, such as credit and debit cards for making payments in sectors such as BSFI, retail, transportation, and hospitality.

iPOS Systems Now Offers Tap to Pay on iPhone with iPOSgo

POS Systems announced its enablement of Tap to Pay on iPhone, allowing its U.S. merchants to accept in-person contactless payments anywhere in-store or on the go using only their iPhone.

Tap to Pay on iPhone accepts all forms of contactless payments, including contactless credit and debit cards, Apple Pay, and other digital wallets using only an iPhone and the iPOSgo! iOS app – no additional hardware or payment terminal needed.

At checkout, the merchant will simply prompt the customer to hold their iPhone or Apple Watch to pay with Apple Pay, their contactless credit or debit card, or other digital wallet near the merchant's iPhone, and the payment will be securely completed using NFC technology. Tap to Pay on iPhone uses the built-in features of iPhone to keep the data of merchants and their customers private and secure. When a payment is processed, Apple doesn't store card numbers on the device or on Apple servers.

Tap to Pay on iPhone enables iPOS Systems iPOSgo! customers to use a payment solution that is easy to set up and use. Merchants will be able to unlock contactless payment acceptance within minutes through the iPOSgo! iOS app on an iPhone XS or later running the latest version of iOS.

Growing digitization of the global economy drives the smart rings market

The potential growth difference for the smart rings market between 2022 and 2027 is USD 34,402.61 thousand. The growing digitization of the global economy drives the smart rings market. Along with developed countries, greater digitization is also observed in developing countries in the APAC and MEA regions.

Increasing Internet penetration, a growing number of mobile users, and a growing number of IoT devices are the factors for this. Technological advancements like contactless payment and AI are also being integrated into wearable electronic devices, which likely have a positive impact on the growth of the global smart rings market.

A smartwatch is a digital device that offers numerous functionalities, such as making calls, messaging, and health monitoring, by tracking the steps taken, calories burned, heart rate, and sleep patterns. It provides customers with quick access to several apps on their smartphones. The smartwatch market accounts for a major share of wearable technology. Vendors such as Apple Inc. (Apple), Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. (Samsung), Garmin Ltd. (Garmin), and Fitbit (owned by Alphabet Inc.) are dominant players in the market.

The smart rings market is segmented by Technology (Bluetooth-enabled smart rings and NFC-enabled smart rings), Application (Notifications, Security, Payment, Health and wellness, and Data transfer), and Geography (North America, Europe, APAC, Middle East and Africa, and South America).

The Bluetooth-enabled smart rings segment will be significant during the forecast period. Bluetooth-enabled smart rings cannot be a standalone product and require the integration of a smartphone for complete functionality. Furthermore, various market vendors exist such as Oura Health which offers the Oura ring that can monitor circadian rhythm and sleep cycle. Hence, such factors drive the Bluetooth-enabled smart rings segment of the smart rings market during the forecast period.

North America will contribute 34% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. View the Sample Report for insights into the contribution of all the segments and regional opportunities in the report.

BC Transit rolls out contactless fare payments

 
Passengers travelling on Victoria Regional Transit System services in the Canadian province of British Columbia can now pay their fares using a pre-loaded contactless card or by scanning a dynamic QR code stored in a dedicated app on their Apple or Android smartphone.

The Umo Mobility app, launched by public transportation provider BC Transit, enables users to create an account and purchase passes or add cash for fare-capped onboard fare payments, alongside the physical Umo transit card that can be topped up online, by phone or at selected vendors.

When ready to travel, riders open their app to display a dynamic QR code that serves as their fare product. As riders board the bus, they present their app’s QR code to a new onboard digital validator. The Umo app also provides riders with additional tools to help them plan their trip including real-time information and maps. Riders also have the choice of using a reloadable Umo card that can be continually topped up with fare products.

Following the rollout in Victoria, BC Transit plans to launch the Umo fare payments system across another 29 regional transit networks in the province and is also planning to enable open loop contactless fare payments at a future date.

Ada Brings RFID Label Converting to North America

Ada Intelligent Equipment Company, a Chinese provider of UHF RFID label converting equipment, has released its A7000-plus machine that can produce multiple types of labels simultaneously.

The machine is designed to provide flexibility to label printers who are incorporating RFID functionality into their products for a variety of customers and applications. The machine can accommodate three common form factors of RFID labels used by brands and retailers for inventory management. It takes components of an RFID label - the printed material, the RFID inlay, and the affixing adhesive - and manufactures (or converts) the materials into a completed RFID tag.

Ada Zeng, the company’s Overseas Sales Department General Manager, said that the latest machines are focused on bringing flexibility to label companies so that they can more easily convert a variety of labels, even several different labels consecutively.

Global smart card IC market will touch USD 4,929.8 million

The global smart card IC market will touch USD 4,929.8 million, propelling at a 7.1% compound annual growth rate, by 2030. This is mainly because of the growing utilization of financial cards and other safe payment solutions. Moreover, the acceptance of smart IDs in educational organizations and e-governance projects are propelling growth.

The growing need for safe payment solutions is one of the major reasons because of why the industry is rising at a high pace. As the count of e-commerce payments is growing, so is the count of scams and frauds. To dodge being a victim of such scams, more-safe solutions are needed, and smart cards are one such solution, as they provide more safety and privacy than other financial data storage or payment solutions.

In 2022, based on end users, the telecommunications category dominated the industry with the largest share. This is mainly because of the use of integrated circuits in subscriber identity modules, boosted by the increasing smartphone acceptance.

Businesses are not only offering postpaid and prepaid SIMs but also pay-as-you-go variants with minimal paperwork, which makes it simpler for customers to use such cards. Additionally, numerous steps are being taken by the government of several nations to connect individuals in rural areas with the internet or smartphones.

Based on the interface segment, the contactless category is rising at a high pace. This is because of the growing utilization of such cards in several establishments and educational organizations as an access control device.

They are utilized in biometric arrangements as they convey information in only one way and do not need the Internet to process. Furthermore, because of the COVID-19 epidemic, several establishments shifted to contactless smart cards, as they are a more-sterile choice over touch-based biometric technologies, like fingerprint and palm geometry recognition.

During the forecast period, the APAC region is projected to grow at a high rate, mainly because of the rapid industrialization and urbanization in the region. Moreover, the fast acceptance of novel technologies in the healthcare, telecommunications, and BFSI industries is boosting the addition of integrated circuits in smart cards. Furthermore, the count of SIMs being utilized in the region is growing at a high rate, which will drive the industry's development.

Based on type, in 2022, the microcontroller category led the market with the largest share, and the category is also projected to dominate the market in the future as well, as such chips provide better memory storage and safety to information compared to the old-style magnetic-stripe cards.

Phillies trial hands-free biometric ticketing

Fans of the Philadelphia Phillies Major League Baseball team in the US can now sign up to test a hands-free biometric ticketing system at Citizens Bank Park that enables them to gain access to home games at the stadium with their face.

Fans can register to take part in the test on the Major League Baseball (MLB) app which automatically links their biometric data to the tickets they have purchased and stored in their MLB app account. They can then gain access to the stadium by simply proceeding through a dedicated lane where cameras authenticate their identity using biometric face recognition technology.

Citizens Bank Park is the first stadium in the US to test the MLB’s Go-Ahead Entry biometric system that combines free-flow security screening technology and facial authentication-based gate management, resulting in a fast, hands-free entry into the ballpark, MLB says.

Automatic Fare Collection (AFC) Systems Market to grow by USD 4,672.71 million between 2022 - 2027

The Automatic Fare Collection (AFC) Systems Market is expected at a CAGR of 9.72% between 2022 and 2027. The market size is anticipated to increase by USD 4,672.71 million during the forecast period.

The AFC systems market is segmented by component (hardware and software), application (railways, parking, entertainment, and others), and geography (North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa), providing a comprehensive understanding of its diverse facets.

The surge in demand for cost-effective public transportation solutions, coupled with government initiatives promoting AFC system adoption, forms the bedrock for the market's growth. Successful applications of diverse technologies, encompassing mobile ticketing, radio frequency identification (RFID), and Near Field Communication (NFC), are pivotal catalysts. Dynamic technological innovations, notably mobile ticketing and RFID are set to fuel exponential market growth. The integration of RFID technology in AFC systems, particularly in metro stations, is propelling the market forward.

Perception Point Introduces First-to-Market Solution to Combat Rising QR Code Phishing Threats

Perception Point, a provider of advanced threat prevention across digital communication channels,  unveiled its first-of-its-kind solution to address the escalating threat of QR code phishing, commonly referred to as "quishing". With the recent influx in quishing campaigns, the need for a definitive solution has never been more pressing.

The re-emergence of QR codes during the COVID-19 pandemic, not only changed the way users interact with digital content but also provided cybercriminals with a novel avenue for evading detection. In 2023, quishing attacks surged dramatically, targeting and successfully breaching organizations of all sizes. Leveraging the conditioned trust many have developed for QR codes, threat actors are launching email campaigns that ingeniously exploit human behavior and social engineering techniques, often impersonating trusted brands like Microsoft to lure targets into divulging their login credentials.

Within the past month, Perception Point successfully prevented quishing campaigns targeting over 25% of its diverse range of customers, encompassing small organizations with as few as 10 users to large enterprises with tens of thousands of employees. 90% of the thwarted attacks targeted users operating within Microsoft 365 email environments.

A key psychological element that drives the success of quishing attacks involves shifting the playground from a computer screen onto a mobile device. Once people hold their phones after scanning the QR code, they are primed for additional steps that pertain to their personal device. Consequently, taking actions like going through Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) seem more natural, immediate and less likely to arouse suspicion. The deceptive simplicity of these attacks allows them to easily bypass most email security systems.

Unlike other email security vendors that often recommend employee training and the use of MFA as the primary defense against quishing, Perception Point is taking a proactive approach to stop malicious QR code campaigns at their source to prevent them from ever reaching the user's inbox. Perception Point's Advanced Email Security now employs a unique image recognition model that identifies and scans the QR codes in near real-time, extracting links and following them to dynamically scan for phishing or malware delivery attempts.

CFPB Report Highlights Role of Big Tech Firms in Mobile Payments

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) published a new issue spotlight highlighting the impacts of Big Tech companies’ policies and practices that govern tap-to-pay on mobile devices like smartphones and watches. Apple currently forbids banks and payment apps from accessing the tap-to-pay functionality on Apple iOS devices and imposes fees through Apple Pay. Google’s Android operating system does not currently have such a policy. The issue spotlight explains how regulations imposed by mobile operating systems can have a significant impact on innovation, consumer choice, and the growth of open and decentralized banking and payments in the U.S.

As of the second quarter of 2023, Apple’s iOS operating system was on 55 percent of smartphones shipped in the U.S., and Google’s Android operating system was on 45 percent of smartphones shipped. Apple and Google set regulations that govern app developers’ ability to integrate near field communication (NFC) technology into their apps, which is needed to execute tap-to-pay transactions. The dominant market share of these two operating systems, coupled with the increasing shift toward mobile device payments, underscores the important role their policies and practices play in retail payments.

Today’s issue spotlight finds:

Rapid growth of tap-to-pay usage: Consumers’ usage of tap-to-pay options in the U.S. has grown considerably in recent years, nearing an estimated $300 billion across Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Google Pay, with some analysts estimating that digital wallet tap-to-pay transactions will grow by over 150 percent by 2028. In 2021, there were an estimated 25 million Google Pay users and 16.3 million Samsung Pay users. An estimated 130 million people in the U.S. use an iPhone at least once per month, and three-fourths of them have activated Apple Pay. An estimated 55.8 million made an in-store payment using Apple Pay in April 2023, accounting for nearly half of iOS users.
Dominant mobile operating systems impose different regulations on contactless payments: Apple’s iPhone and other iOS devices do not permit third-party payment apps to access the NFC technology that is necessary to execute tap-to-pay contactless payments. Apple’s proprietary payment app, Apple Pay, is the only option for tap-to-pay payments on iOS devices. While Google’s Android operating system does not currently restrict third-party payment app access to the NFC chip on Android devices, this policy could change in the future.
Restrictive tap-to-pay practices may reduce consumer choice and hamper innovation: Restrictions on the use of tap-to-pay reduce consumer choice and inhibit progress toward a more robust open banking ecosystem, where consumers have more control over their personal financial information and developers provide payments solutions that better meet consumers’ needs. For example, Apple’s current NFC policy prohibits directly integrating tap-to-pay functionality into existing banking applications and other payment apps (e.g., PayPal, Venmo, Cash App).
The spotlight is part of the CFPB’s broader effort to monitor the shift to open banking in the U.S., including trends in consumer payments and the introduction of multi-service super apps  into this space.

The CFPB is undertaking a rulemaking required by Section 1033 of the Consumer Financial Protection Act to clarify consumers’ personal financial data rights. This proposal has the potential to accelerate a shift toward “open banking” in the United States. Interoperability across consumer financial products and services is a key pillar of open banking, which facilitates greater consumer choice and ease of switching between providers. The retail payments system is rapidly evolving and the CFPB is evaluating the existing landscape to understand how regulatory changes could complement, or disrupt, the transition to open banking.

Google Wallet debuts in Colombia

Google Wallet has launched in Colombia, allowing users to store and use their credit and debit cards, boarding passes, tickets, and other digital credentials on their Android NFC smartphone, Wear OS smartwatch, or Fitbit device.

Colombia is now among the 70 countries where Google Wallet can be used to make contactless in-store payments. At launch, the service supports Mastercard and Visa credit and debit cards issued by Bancolombia and Banco Davivienda, Visa debit cards issued by Nequi, Mastercard credit cards issued by Nubank, as well as American Express cards issued by Bancolombia.

Google Wallet began rolling out in 39 countries in July 2022, was extended to a further six in August 2022, and went live in Malaysia in November of the same year. The service also launched in Costa Rica in March 2023, Japan in April 2023, and rolled out in five further countries — Argentina, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, and Montenegro — in June 2023.

Barcodes Group Continues to Grow Through M&A with Acquisition of NeWave RFID

Barcodes Group, through its subsidiary Smart Label Solutions (SLS), announces its acquisition of NeWave Sensor Solutions, LLC, a pioneer in RFID technology innovation and inventor of the Patented Wave antenna.

This is the second acquisition by Barcodes Group this year and propels Barcodes Group and SLS to the forefront of the RFID industry.

Founded in 2010 by the visionary Dr. Walter (Den) Burnside, Ph.D. EE, NeWave developed many advanced technologies that clients use to efficiently manage their operations.

The creation of its novel RFID antenna, developed in partnership with The Ohio State University to optimize RFID performance, laid the foundation for NeWave and SLS' rise to prominence in RFID technology solutions.

BoxHero Launches Inventory Management API

BoxHero Inc, an inventory management platform for small to medium-sized businesses, has launched two new solutions to offer greater convenience and integration for customers.

Growing businesses frequently experience challenges when adopting barcode systems due to the needs of software assessment, installation, and operation. For its customers and anyone else seeking a solution, BoxHero has launched a free online system to effortlessly print 1D and 2D (QR code) labels through a few simple clicks. Just select your paper size, choose a design template, upload an Excel file, and print!

With BoxHero's barcode generator, there's no need for any software installation, and users can print from either desktops or mobile devices. Label sheets can be designed for commonly used templates, such as Avery, with options to adjust the font size and alignment for all languages. This new barcode generator is especially useful for sectors like eCommerce, manufacturing, wholesale, retail, and 3PL (third-party logistics) service providers.

Concurrently, BoxHero has launched an API (application programming interface) to enable easy integration with external programs and platforms. Responding to the needs of customers, BoxHero has created this pathway for businesses to easily retrieve and utilize inventory data, helping them process transactions and access beneficial insights. For example, this might involve linking BoxHero's inventory data with Shopify's order management system and automating inventory updates upon order shipments.

Internet of Things Market in the healthcare sector to grow by USD 161.6 billion from 2022 to 2027

The potential growth difference for the Internet of Things market in the healthcare sector from 2022 to 2027 is USD 161.6 billion. With ISO 9001:2015 certification, Increasing remote patient monitoring is a key factor driving market growth.

Access to healthcare facilities in some countries is difficult, as most residents live away from hospitals. In addition, it is difficult for patients over the age of 60 to visit the hospital regularly. In this way, remote patient care by the Internet of Things will solve these types of problems.

Moreover, the main advantage of telemedicine is that it allows health professionals to access patients by means of sensors and remote equipment to help them with their prescriptions, obtain medication, or measure biometrics.

The medical devices segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. Remote monitoring of healthcare and the provision of early convenient treatment and personalized care are now possible due to the development of IoT-enabled medical devices, allowing for their deployment by doctors.

These devices are placed in an individual's body so that specific information on physiology can be measured. In addition, the collection of data, analysis for research, and observation of electronic medical records made available by medical devices is one of the main applications of the IoT. Hence, these factors are expected to drive segment growth during the forecast period.

North America is estimated to contribute 35% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. The US is the major contributor to the market in the region. This is due to high healthcare expenditure and the adoption of advanced technologies.

Deluge of IoT Big Data, a Fallout of the Growing IoT Ecosystem, Amplifies the Importance & Value of Big Data Analytics

The global market for Big Data estimated at US$154.9 Billion in the year 2022, is projected to reach a revised size of US$353.9 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 10.9% over the analysis period 2022-2030.

The report provides an independent analysis of annual revenues and percentage CAGR for the years 2022 through 2030, along with historic review data for the years 2015 through 2021.

The global market analysis encompasses various segments, including Solutions and Services within industries like BFSI, IT & Telecom, Manufacturing, Retail, Government, Healthcare, and Other End-Uses across different geographic regions such as the USA, Canada, Japan, China, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of the World.

Solutions segment is projected to record 10.1% CAGR and reach US$228.4 Billion by the end of the analysis period. Taking into account the ongoing post pandemic recovery, growth in the Services segment is readjusted to a revised 12.5% CAGR for the next 8-year period.

The U.S. Market is Estimated at $55 Billion, While China is Forecast to Grow at 12.7% CAGR

The Big Data market in the U.S. is estimated at US$55 Billion in the year 2022. China, the world's second largest economy, is forecast to reach a projected market size of US$44.8 Billion by the year 2030 trailing a CAGR of 12.7% over the analysis period 2022 to 2030.

Among the other noteworthy geographic markets are Japan and Canada, each forecast to grow at 9.5% and 10.4% respectively over the 2022-2030 period. Within Europe, Germany is forecast to grow at approximately 10.5% CAGR.

SEPTA begins testing open loop contactless fare payments

According to a NFCW article, Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) has started a pilot program to test an open loop contactless fare payment system that allows passengers to pay for their journeys with their physical or digital credit card. 

The pilot program will see a total of 200 users testing the service on buses, trolleybuses, and subways prior to a wider rollout if the scheme is successful. SEPTA has not offered a definitive timeline for a wide-scale rollout, saying the pilot would continue until the agency was satisfied with the volume of daily transactions and confident that the system is ready to be rolled out for general public use. 

Riders of Regional Rail will have to wait until early 2024 for a contactless payment pilot and eventual rollout. SEPTA set out plans to develop, implement and maintain a multimodal mobile and contactless fare payments system in April.

Nordstrom to Ramp up RFID

Nordstrom plans to improve its supply chain efficiency by increasing its use of RFID technology and enhancing its inventory and returns management.

The company’s supply chain strategy supports its three main goals: improving Nordstrom Rack’s performance, increasing inventory productivity, and boosting profitability and readiness for the second half of the year.

By optimizing its supply chain, Nordstrom has improved its customer service, offering faster and cheaper delivery, which was essential for its annual Anniversary sale.

CEO Erik Nordstrom said on a recent earnings call that the company’s variable supply chain costs have decreased by more than 100 basis points as a percentage of sales compared to the previous year for four quarters in a row, helping to offset the impact of lower sales on its SG&A expenses.

The company said it was “better prepared” to launch the Anniversary sale this year thanks to its ongoing supply chain improvements.

Epson to Exhibit Robotic and Color Label Solutions at PACK EXPO Las Vegas 2023

To address the labor concerns and unique challenges of the packaging industry, at PACK EXPO 2023 Las Vegas Epson will be showcasing print and automation solutions that highlight color, flexibility and traceability.

Epson offers a range of robotic and color label solutions engineered for speed and adaptability and designed to boost efficiency, reduce costs and elevate overall production processes. Epson's offerings will be displayed from Sept. 11-13 at the Las Vegas Convention Center in the South Lower Hall in booth #SL-6664.

Epson to exhibit robotic and color label solutions for packaging applications at PACK EXPO Las Vegas 2023

Print and Apply Labeling – Epson will showcase two full-color print-and-apply labeling solutions: One will feature a ColorWorks CW-C6000P paired with an Epson the VT6L 6-Axis robot, and the other will feature a ColorWorks CW-C6000P paired with a General Data PAC5 applicator. These solutions offer label placement flexibility and precision, and are ideal for product ID and package labeling. The VT6L All-in-One 6-Axis robot is available in Standard, Cleanroom and IP67. It features a controller built into the base and can be wall, ceiling or table mounted.

RFID Labeling Applications – Epson will be demonstrating several solutions for a variety of labeling applications – including shipping, product and RFID labels. The ColorWorks CW-C6000A will be paired with an unwinder and feature an integrated RFID solution for printing high-resolution, full-color RFID product labels in a single pass.

High-Precision SCARA Robot with Parts-Feeding – The GX8 robot offers multiple arm configurations, Cleanroom and IP65 versions, with a reach of up to 650mm. It can quickly handle payloads up to 8 kg from a conveniently small form factor. The GX8 can be easily integrated with IntelliFlex Parts Feeding Systems­ software and Vision Guide, showcasing an effortless pick and place operation using a single 530 feeder to highlight the ultimate flexibility of the system. The IntelliFlex lineup has four feeder sizes and can handle a variety of parts from 3mm to 150mm with optional anti-roll, anti-stick and medical grade tray configurations.

High-Volume Label Printing – The ColorWorks C7500G is ideal for high-volume production environments printing full-color labels at speeds up to 11.8" per second1. In addition, Epson will show label samples from the SurePress digital label press line – labels with spot varnish from the SurePress L-6534VW with Digital Varnish and the first in-person showing of samples from the SurePress L-6534VW with Orange ink, as well as samples from the SurePress L-4733AW with White Ink.

Industrial Barcode Scanner Industry Trends 2023-2028: Industry 4.0 and Wearable Scanner Adoption Driving the Market

The global industrial barcode scanner market is projected to attain an estimated value of $8.3 billion by 2028, showcasing a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.1% from 2023 to 2028. The future of this market holds significant promise, marked by opportunities in various applications such as manufacturing, transportation and logistics, retail, and the food & beverage sector. The key drivers propelling market growth include the emergence of Industry 4.0, the increasing adoption of wearable barcode scanners, and the rising presence of multinational logistics service providers on a global scale.

In the competitive landscape of this market, companies vie based on product quality, driving major players to prioritize the expansion of manufacturing facilities, investments in research and development, infrastructural advancements, and capitalizing on integration opportunities across the value chain. These strategic measures empower industrial barcode scanner companies to cater to the growing demand, enhance competitive efficacy, innovate novel products and technologies, reduce production costs, and expand their customer base. Some prominent players in the industrial barcode scanner market include:

Handheld scanners are anticipated to experience the highest growth over the forecast period, driven by retailers' increasing adoption. These portable and user-friendly scanners enable the reading of product information such as price tags or labels during the purchasing process.
Manufacturing is expected to maintain its status as the largest segment due to widespread barcode scanner applications in factories for inventory monitoring, manufacturing status tracking, component location management, quality control data collection, and more.
North America is poised to remain the largest region, attributed to the presence of major OEM manufacturing bases and widespread barcode scanner adoption in sectors such as hospitality, entertainment, and warehousing.

Location Analytics Market worth $38.5 billion by 2028

The Location Analytics Market is estimated to grow from USD 20.6 billion in 2023 to USD 38.5 billion by 2028, at a CAGR of 13.4% during the forecast period, according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets.  

Location analytics is a global game-changer for businesses, utilizing geospatial data to provide insights for strategic decisions and operational excellence. It optimizes market expansion, customer engagement, and supply chain efficiency. With location-based insights, companies proactively manage risks and enhance urban planning. In healthcare, it refines patient care and disease tracking. For retailers, it drives personalized strategies, while emergency responders benefit from optimized disaster responses. Overall, location analytics empowers businesses globally, transforming data into actionable insights for informed decision-making and superior performance.

Location analytics is swiftly gaining ground in the healthcare and life sciences sector. By amalgamating geographic data with patient information, it offers insights crucial for optimized healthcare delivery, resource allocation, and disease tracking. From enhancing patient outcomes through personalized treatment plans to streamlining supply chain management for pharmaceuticals, the sector benefits immensely. Real-time geospatial analysis empowers efficient emergency response, epidemiological studies, and healthcare infrastructure planning. However, concerns over data privacy and interoperability challenges must be diligently addressed to fully harness the potential of location analytics, ensuring it becomes an indispensable tool for evidence-based decision-making across the healthcare and life sciences landscape.

BEST Vietnam Partners with Techcombank to Boost Cashless Payments Through Dynamic QR Code

BEST Vietnam under BEST Inc., a integrated smart supply chain solutions and logistics services provider in China and Southeast Asia, announced a cooperation with Techcombank to enhance cashless payments through QR code scanning.

Customers when receiving packages delivered by BEST Express, can now scan dynamic QR code to make cashless payments. This intelligent payment method is implemented through the Virtual Account solution developed by Techcombank.

The solution was awarded as "Best Collection Management solution via Virtual Account Southeast Asia" by The Asian Banker, and as the "Best Cash Management and Transaction Bank in Vietnam" by The Asian Banker.

Mr. Devin Fan, Deputy General Director of BEST Vietnam stated that the expansion of cashless payments aligns with the trend of smart payments in the 4.0 era and BEST Vietnam's project of promoting cashless payment, "it will help reduce more risks associated with cash handling for us and provide customers with a seamless service experience."

Proposed new driver’s licenses with embedded radio chips for the U.S. state of Ohio reportedly will wait years for approval

According to a news publisher covering Cleveland, The Plain Dealer, legislators in Ohio approved the development of digital IDs in April. 

The enhanced document would broadcast a unique code and biometric data that border guards for a small selection of nations could receive to identify the bearer remotely. 

The goal is to speed border transits via land and at seaports when traveling to Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean Sea nations. Editors for Cleveland.com report that they have not been able to get details about why federal approval will take so long. They were told it could be a multi-year process.

Reliable sensor that can screen for water contamination

A team of researchers from Argonne National Laboratory, the Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering at the University of Chicago and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee has developed sensors that can detect lead, mercury, and E. coli in flowing tap water.

The sensors are made up of a one-nanometer-thick layer of carbon and oxygen atoms, a form of graphene, which is coated on a silicon substrate.

Gold electrodes are then imprinted onto the graphene surface, followed by a nanometer-thick insulating layer of aluminum oxide. Each sensor is tailored to detect one of the three toxins: lead, mercury or E. coli.

The team’s innovation promises to help safeguard public health by providing early warning for contamination.

Global Data Center RFID Market Assessment: Balancing Costs and Benefits Amid Demand Boom

The global Data Center RFID market is expected to witness substantial growth with a projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 12.6% over the next five years. Several factors contribute to this growth, including the increasing demand for data centers globally and the need for real-time asset information to mitigate risks and enhance operational efficiency.

Key Drivers:

Growing Need for Data Centers: The expansion of the internet, mobile devices, and the Internet of Things (IoT) has led to a massive generation of data, driving the demand for data center facilities. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology is instrumental in asset management within data centers, leading to increased productivity and cost savings.

Asset Management and Risk Mitigation: Data center managers are under continuous pressure to enhance asset security while optimizing resource utilization. The use of RFID technology allows for the identification of critical assets such as servers and IT equipment, reducing the risk of data loss or operational disruptions.

Cost Considerations: The upfront cost of deploying an active RFID system may be higher compared to passive RFID solutions. However, over time, the cost differential tends to diminish, making active RFID systems more cost-effective. Passive RFID systems, while initially requiring less investment, often incur labor costs for manual data collection.

Transport and Logistics Sector: RFID technology finds significant use in the transportation and logistics industry. It enables real-time tracking of vehicles and assets, leading to improved operational efficiency, reduced costs, and enhanced productivity. RFID integration with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) enhances product tracking and accuracy.

Retail Industry Transformation: The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of RFID in the retail sector, supporting omnichannel retail strategies. RFID helps retailers maintain inventory visibility across multiple locations and adapt to changing consumer demands efficiently.

RFID Market size worth USD 23.86 Billion, Globally, by 2030

The Global RFID Market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 10% from 2023 to 2030, according to a new report published by Verified Market Research®. The report reveals that the market was valued at USD 11.13 Billion in 2022 and is expected to reach USD 23.86 Billion by the end of the forecast period.

The global RFID Market manufacturing landscape is undergoing a transformative phase, with the increased integration of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) systems emerging as a pivotal driver of productivity enhancement. In a bid to propel market growth, manufacturing units worldwide are harnessing the power of RFID technology to amplify efficiency through specialized tool integration and the adoption of quality management practices.

The escalating demand for heightened operational efficiency is fueling the rapid adoption of RFID systems in manufacturing facilities. These systems are strategically employed to monitor equipment status, assess performance metrics, detect process flaws, and avert system breakdowns, all of which are essential components for ensuring predictive maintenance of machinery and systems. The pivotal role of RFID technology in asset management within industrial plants is gaining traction as businesses seek to optimize performance through systematic monitoring and control.

The trajectory of the RFID market's growth is intrinsically tied to the augmentation of its adoption in manufacturing sectors globally. The ongoing global pandemic has underscored the importance of adaptability and remote monitoring within manufacturing units. In light of lockdowns and government restrictions, businesses have encountered operational delays, prompting a renewed focus on maintaining social distancing norms within the plant environment. Herein lies the potential of RFID technology, synergizing with industrial automation solutions to facilitate a swift recovery beyond initial projections. Producers are finding value in utilizing RFID to establish remote tracking systems for both products and equipment, allowing real-time monitoring and adherence to safety protocols.