Amir Efrati and Robin Sidel
WSJ
May 25, 2011
Google Inc. is expected to disclose details about how consumers will be able to make store purchases, redeem coupons, and get loyalty points by waving smartphones in front of a small reader at the checkout counter, said people familiar with the matter.
At an event Thursday in New York, the Web-search company is planning to show off the technology, called near field communication, which is embedded in newer smartphones powered by Google’s Android software and that can help turn the devices into a kind of electronic wallet, these people said.
Fresh food that lasts from eFoods Direct (Ad)
The program will launch first in New York, San Francisco, and potentially other locations, followed by a broader rollout, said a person familiar with the matter. Participating retailers include Macy’s Inc., American Eagle Outfitters Inc. and the Subway fast-food chain, said a person familiar with the matter. Retailers that participate in the program will have upgraded terminals at the point of sale that can read the mobile devices and provide special offers.
The Emergency Election Sale is now live! Get 30% to 60% off our most popular products today!