Japan is introducing a system which could replace both cash and credit cards. There are hopes the move will attract more tourists to the country, while easing payment and dispensing with the need for cards or cash. Tests are starting this summer. The system will calculate how much money a customer has based on a fingerprint. Japan hopes to have it up-and-running in time for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, according to the Yomiuri Shimbun.
The idea itself is not new – a version already exists at a bank and a theme park in Nagasaki Prefecture. Customers there can make payments at over 30 restaurants and businesses. What’s so convenient about it is you only have to go through one scan when arriving to Japan – and you’re good to go (assuming you have money – this is Japan, after all). The customer places two fingers on a scanner to complete payment. READ MORE
