Reports by Consumers

Very soon, cell phones and other small objects will be able to make credit card payments using RFID technology, simply by being held close to a payment terminal.

Often called "contactless payments," the technology involves swiping an enabled cell phone, key ring or other small item near a point-of-sale terminal. The capabilities, which use RFID-like near-field wireless technology, are starting to gain momentum in Japan and are undergoing tests in the U.S. and Europe. Credit card companies have endorsed the technology.

McDonald's restaurants are expected to adopt the system in North America this year.