Last month we heard about a new service called Moneto, that would bring NFC payments to non NFC enabled smartphones. The service uses an NFC enabled microSD card and Moneto is being released for Android, and also Apple’s iOS device with an NFC enabled case.
Moneto has just launched the Android version, and the NFC enabled microSD card will set you back $30. With that, you get a 1GB microSD card, an NFC signal boosting sticker, a prepaid debit card, and $10 credit.
The Moneto NFC enabled microSD card comes with a free Android app which lets you make payments using NFC with MasterCard’s PayPass system.
How Moneto Works
Moneto’s innovative approach leverages the microSD card slot found in many Android devices to add NFC capabilities. This is particularly useful for older smartphones that lack built-in NFC hardware. The microSD card not only provides storage but also integrates an NFC chip that communicates with the Moneto app. The NFC signal boosting sticker enhances the signal strength, ensuring reliable transactions.
Once the microSD card is inserted and the app is installed, users can link their prepaid debit card to the app. This allows them to make contactless payments at any retailer that accepts MasterCard PayPass. The $10 credit included with the purchase is a nice bonus, giving users an immediate incentive to start using the service.
Moneto for iPhone
For iPhone users, Moneto offers a different solution. Since iPhones do not have microSD card slots, Moneto provides an NFC-enabled case. This case, which costs $79.95, adds NFC functionality to the iPhone, allowing it to work with the Moneto app in the same way as the Android version. The case is designed to be sleek and unobtrusive, ensuring that it does not interfere with the phone’s aesthetics or usability.
The iPhone version of Moneto also includes a prepaid debit card and $10 credit, similar to the Android version. This makes it easy for iPhone users to start making NFC payments without needing to upgrade to a newer model with built-in NFC.
Benefits and Use Cases
The primary benefit of Moneto is that it democratizes NFC payments, making them accessible to a broader range of smartphone users. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who may not want to upgrade their phones just to gain NFC capabilities. Additionally, the prepaid debit card feature adds a layer of financial flexibility, allowing users to manage their spending more effectively.
For example, a college student with an older Android phone can use Moneto to make quick and easy payments at campus stores, vending machines, and local retailers. Similarly, an iPhone user who prefers not to upgrade to the latest model can still enjoy the convenience of contactless payments by using the Moneto case.
You can find out full details about the Moneto NFC enabled microSD card over at their website. There is also an iPhone version which comes with a case that costs $79.95.
Source Droid Dog, Droid Life
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
