Windows Phone 7 could get mobile payments with near field comms

MICROSOFT is purportedly working on a software update for Windows Phone 7 that will enable mobile payments with Near Field Communication (NFC).

Windows Phone 7 handsets with the feature are expected to arrive later this year. Bloomberg has cited two anonymous individuals as its source, stating that these people were familiar with the Vole's plans.

The news comes quick on the heels of reports of a mobile payment system being planned for Google's Android OS, and widespread speculation that Apple is to follow suit.

Microsoft is attempting to close the gap between Windows Phone 7 and Android, but it remains to be seen if it will get this feature in place before Apple does.

Microsoft owns some 14 patents relating to NFC, the majority of which were granted this month. It might have been waiting for this approval before commencing with its mobile payment plans.

Studies by ABI Research revealed that NFC would double by 2012, making Microsoft's entry into this market an essential move it cannot afford to delay. µ