In the midst of the recent flurry of Google Wallet news, Isis has announced that they will release an Android application when the payment system is released next year. While this announcement would be more significant if the application were released today, it still gives the application a fighting chance against recently launched Google Wallet.
The marketing head of Isis, Jaymee Johnson, believes that the broad spectrum of compatibility for the payment system will give it the competitive edge over Google Wallet. Isis is backed by Verizon Wireless, AT&T, and T-Mobile, as well as Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express. Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile have spent a total of approximately $100 million to support the system. This in response, no doubt, to Google’s choice of one carrier to debut Google Wallet.
While Isis does have the partnerships in place to size up to its strongest competitor, there are a couple of snags that might hold the service back. First of all, Isis has yet to announce a release date more specific than early 2012. Additionally, in the minimum four-month gap between the launch of Google Wallet and Isis, other credit card companies have been added to Google’s service. Though we have yet to see if the other carriers will follow suit, Google’s heavy influence is sure to play a part in their decisions.
[via FierceMobileContent]
So, this may be a dumb question, but if you have an android system today, would isis work on it once it launches in january, or do you think you will be required to upgrade your system?
I believe as long as you have nfc ability you’re fine.