JCB Co., Ltd. and Resona Holdings, Inc. have announced a joint project to commercialize ultra-wideband payments, marking what they describe as the world's first full-scale initiative for practical UWB payment applications. The companies plan to demonstrate payment technology and value-added merchant solutions through partner collaborations in 2026, followed by small-scale commercial operations in 2027 and full-scale commercialization in 2028.
The project's significance lies in its potential to transform retail experiences through UWB communication technology, which enables accurate device location and high-speed data transmission. Unlike current payment methods requiring physical contact with terminals or QR code scanning, UWB payments would allow hands-free transactions even with smartphones kept in pockets or bags. This technology could address labor shortages by automating communication of customer preferences such as food allergy information, receipt requirements, loyalty program details, and assistance needs.
Both companies participate in the FiRa Consortium, an organization dedicated to standardizing UWB technology for precise location awareness. Through FiRa Consortium activities, JCB and Resona will standardize payment application technologies and conduct tests with participating vendors. The project aims to build infrastructure that can accept competitor UWB payment solutions, reducing merchant adoption barriers. Additional details about UWB technology standardization are available through the FiRa Consortium at https://www.firaconsortium.org.
Japan's advanced smartphone market positions the country as an ideal testing ground, with UWB-capable devices already widely available. The technology's potential extends beyond basic payments to include personalized marketing through smart displays, VIP customer service automation, and improved in-store navigation efficiency. Visual comparisons between NFC and UWB payment technologies can be viewed at https://www.acnnewswire.com/docs/Multimedia/202602.JCB_2.jpg.
This initiative builds upon previous collaboration between JCB and Resona, who entered a strategic partnership in January 2024 for hands-free payment development. JCB has already developed UWB-enabled applications for Apple devices alongside store equipment reference models. The companies will conduct user experience research and store operation studies to confirm acceptability before commercialization. Examples of value-added solutions and UWB payment overviews are illustrated at https://www.acnnewswire.com/docs/Multimedia/202602.JCB_1.jpg.
The project represents a significant advancement in payment technology that could redefine retail interactions globally. By leveraging Japan's existing technological infrastructure and diverse cashless payment landscape, JCB and Resona aim to create solutions addressing both user convenience and merchant operational challenges. The phased implementation approach allows for thorough testing and refinement before full market deployment.
