Mophie reader may challenge Square

Mophie today broadcast its intent to get into mobile payment by unveiling early details of a credit card reader for the iPhone. The peripheral when attached will let owners "complete financial transactions on the go" and will come with its own companion iPhone app to handle the payments themselves. Unlike some add-ons, the Mophie entry is designed to remain attached for long periods and rests flush with the iPhone case; it doesn't appear to support the iPod touch.

It's unspecified whether the reader will simply tap into existing payment infrastructure systems or else will include its own separate infrastructure, much like Square. The latter is intended primarily for small or very mobile businesses that either can't afford or would prefer not to use bulky and at times expensive credit card processing hardware and services.

More info, such as pricing and how Mophie will sell the readers to companies and individuals, is expected to arrive at CES next week. [via MobileCrunch]

By Electronista Staff