Feb 18 • 09:27 UTC 🇩🇪 Germany FAZ

Self-test in Cashland: How to pay with a chip on your fingernail

A German journalist tests a fingernail NFC chip for payments over three weeks, experiencing reactions from cashiers and exploring the practicality of the technology in a cash-driven society.

In a society where cash is the dominant form of payment, a journalist in Germany decides to experiment with a novel payment method: an NFC chip embedded in her fingernail. Over the course of three weeks, she uses this technology to pay for her purchases in various locations, including supermarkets and bars. The experience captures the skepticism and curiosity of the cashiers she encounters, as many are surprised by her unconventional method of payment.

The experiment reveals the challenges and limitations of using a fingernail chip for payments. While two-thirds of Germans already utilize smartphones or smartwatches for transactions, the journalist's experience highlights the novelty and potential drawbacks of her method. She notes that every time she makes a payment, she has to explain the technology, which can lead to confusion or distrust. The article discusses how this experience reflects the broader hesitation some people may have towards cashless transactions, especially in a country where cash remains king.

Moreover, the experiment raises significant questions about the future of payment technologies in Germany. As digital payment methods proliferate, the acceptance of alternative payment forms like NFC chips will likely depend on user experience, technological comfort, and societal attitudes towards cash and privacy. This test serves as both a personal journey and an observation of the evolving landscape of financial transactions in a traditionally cash-oriented country.

📡 Similar Coverage