What does a healthcare facility in Atlanta have in common with Qwest Field in Seattle, and why is MasterCard involved? No, it doesn’t have anything to do with an athlete getting hurt. It’s the next wave of technology aimed at making our lives easier and more efficient:
   On Track Innovations Ltd. (OTI) has debuted a “Contactless” card which is already in use at both facilities.
   At Qwest Field, the card offers a new way to purchase concessions instantly and accurately. Season Ticket holders receive a Card emblazoned with the Seahawks’ logo, which is used in a special “express” line where no currency changes hands speeding up waiting time.
   OTI claims to be the sole pioneer in contactless microprocessor technology. It offers an alternative to cards that need to be swiped or inserted, and says the contactless microprocessor-based smart card will soon make today’s version of a credit card obsolete. MasterCard must agree, as it has developed a prototype for widespread use.
   The easily scanned cards eliminate the “swipe.” For example, scanning your card at a grocery store, the cashier will identify you by a photo that pops up instead of by your signature. They can also be used as an electronic passport at border crossings – or even parking your car using an electronic payment system.
   Cardholders will experience faster transaction time, enhanced security, and fraud prevention with the limitless forms that a smart card can take to store personal and financial information.