iCache’s Geode case brings e-wallet to the iPhone
14 May, 2012
category: Biometrics, NFC, Smart Cards
Startup iCache has developed a mobile wallet solution for the iPhone that enables users consolidate all of their payment, loyalty and membership cards onto one smart card.
The protective Geode case, priced at $199, features a magnetic stripe reader that enables users to input their payment card info on the free Geode app. From there, users can program the Geode’s smart card, the GeoCard, which fits into a sleeve on the back of the case, to temporarily act as any other the cards stored in the Geode app. The user simply opens the app, chooses which card they want to pay with, and swipes the GeoCard.
To protect the user’s financial information, the Geode case contains a biometric fingerprint scanner, which can be programmed to unlock the phone only at the owner’s touch.
As an added security feature, the GeoCard has a built-in timer that returns the card to dummy status within 20 seconds of being activated.
Bar code-based cards can also be stored and displayed using the Geode’s e-ink “Universal Bar Code” display, which, as its name implies, can be read by any bar code scanner.
According to CNET, the Geode has already raised $357,000 on Kickstarter and has received 3,000 pre-orders – 1,000 of which came in the first two and a half days of availability.
See the Geode in action: