According to new data from ABI Research, in 2009 the value of mobile commerce transacted via non-NFC (non-Near Field Communication) methods will total $1.6 billion, while mobile commerce conducted via NFC will be minimal. 

“Mobile Internet shopping is the largest piece of the action,” says Mark Beccue, ABI Research senior analyst. “Thanks to red-hot smartphone adoption, an increasing number of subscribers are shopping at mobile commerce sites such as Amazon and eBay.”

There are two main mobile commerce technology camps: NFC, and “the rest” — methods based on non-NFC technologies such as SMS, mobile Internet, and mobile applications. The development of the NFC market has not met early expectations, a failure, says ABI Research practice director Dan Shey, not of technology, but of unclear business models. Non-NFC platforms aim to fill this gap.

Says Shey, “NFC is the ‘holy grail’ that provides the easiest user experience. Other methods require more work and expertise from the consumer. The question is: will the NFC market respond to these alternatives and get organized, or will it continue on its own path?”

Demand for these services and related mobile money services, such as banking, domestic person-to-person payments, and international remittances is undeniable, although its drivers differ around the world. Industrialized regions’ customers are becoming comfortable with using their mobile phones for more than just traditional communications. In the developing world, mobile money services have promise as an alternative to scarce financial institutions for money transfers, and as ways to reach the previously “unbanked.”

In a new research product ABI Research provides a comprehensive view of mobile financial services. “Mobile Money Services and Contactless Payment Forecasts,” breaks down the market data in two primary areas: 1) mobile financial services, which include banking, domestic person to person payments and international remittances and 2) mobile commerce, which includes information about both NFC and non-NFC related transactions.

It forms part of the firm’s Mobile Money Research Service which also includes Research Reports, Research Briefs, ABI Insights, ABI Vendor Matrices, and analyst inquiry support.

ABI Research provides in-depth analysis and quantitative forecasting of emerging trends in global connectivity. From offices in North America, Europe and Asia, ABI Research’s worldwide team of experts advise thousands of decision makers through research and advisory services in seven key practice areas. Est. 1990. For more information visit www.abiresearch.com, or call +1.516.624.2500.