5.4.1 Mobile commerce

There is substantial potential for commercial transactions using wireless devices. The built-in security (caller identification provides a basic level of authentication) makes them more suitable than desktop systems anonymously connected to the Internet. In an attempt to tap a new market, some Internet storefronts have already begun to offer the ability to wirelessly order products.

To date, this channel has not yet been widely adopted by consumers, mainly because they still prefer to conduct business using a richer user interface. It remains to be seen if this is a question of merely needing to adapt to a new technology.

The advantage to the consumer is not obvious except in cases where the need is immediate and can be fulfilled instantaneously. Often cited examples are buying drinks from a vending machine or purchasing tickets at a theater. For small amounts of money the device facilitates the transition to a cashless society. For larger transactions it represents the wish of the mobile operators to enter the financial sector, competing with the role of the credit card.

Storefronts may prefer wireless commerce over...