The Association of Southeast Asian Nations and Japan intend to unify their systems next year Beginning next year, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Japan intend to combine their QR code mobile payment systems to streamline transactions and skip currency exchange requirements. This strategy will be particularly beneficial to tourists moving throughout the region. This strategy was announced by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry in Japan (METI), and the Vietnam News Agency (VNA). Its purpose is to make spending a smoother experience throughout the regions. METI…
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LINE launches new services in order to expand mobile payments
LINE introduces new technology and support for pre-paid cards Japanese messaging firm LINE has announced the launch of new barcode scanning technology for mobile devices as well as a pre-paid card service. Both are expected to help consumers make mobile payments when shopping at physical stores. The move is part of LINE’s largest initiative to establish a strong presence in the mobile commerce space. The company already has a foothold in this market with its LINE Pay service, but intends to connect more aggressively with consumers in the future. Line…
Read MoreMobile games generate controversy in Japan
Mobile gaming is becoming an extremely expensive pastime for many consumers The mobile games space is often criticized for its love of microtransactions. Many mobile games feature content and bonuses that can be paid for. In fact, many games actually limit how much people can play unless they are willing to pay. In Japan, a particularly mobile game has caused some controversy, highlighting how dubious microtransactions can be. The game is called Granblue Fantasy and is developed by Cygames, which ran a special promotion for the game just before the…
Read MoreGrowth of mobile games in Southeast Asia is slowing, but remains strong
Southeast Asia is leading the way in the aggressive growth of mobile gaming Southeast Asia may be the world’s leading market for mobile games, but the market is showing signs of becoming more sluggish due to oversaturation. While more people in this region have been purchasing smartphones, the number of big-name mobile games has reached a point where smaller games are finding it harder to compete. Games like “Candy Crush Saga” and “Minecraft” have come to dominate the market, leaving little room for other games to thrive. Mobile games are…
Read MoreMobile commerce sees explosive growth worldwide
Emerging markets are beginning to focus more heavily on the digital world, especially where mobile is concerned Mobile commerce continues to see aggressive growth throughout the world, with much of this growth being driven by emerging markets that have become increasingly focused on the digital space. Mobile commerce now accounts for approximately 7% of all e-commerce sales globally. This an incredible increase over what the mobile sector accounted for in 2010. Over the next three years, the mobile’s share of the e-commerce market is expected to by more than 50%.…
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