Yodobashi Camera, a major Japanese electronics retail chain, has announced a new point card that features "FeliCa" contactless IC technology.

Now that NTT DoCoMo, JR East Japan, JR West Japan, ANA, and several other major organizations have announced FeliCa-related products and/or services, I'm beginning to wonder exactly how long it will be before we see it here in America.

More details o­n the new card inside.

Yodobashi Camera Corporation will begin offering new-style Golden Point Cards containing "FeliCa" contactless IC technology in September.

This has been achieved thanks to the company's cooperation with Sony Finance International Corporation. Besides the standard Golden Point Card functionality, the card can utilize FeliCa functionality such as "eLIO" for internet-based shopping, "Edy" electronic money, and is planned to be able to be used as a standard VISA card. There is no admission fee or annual cost. Interested parties who already have Golden Point Cards will be able to switch over, where there current point balance will be transferred as well.

These points work as they have in the past, where items purchased at Yodobashi Camera will result in point resolution. Also, Golden Points will be issued depending o­n the amount of money spent at other stores through the card's credit card function. Exactly how many points has not yet been announced.

FeliCa technology, beginning with "My Sony Card" operated by Sony Finance, is being used in JR East Japan's "Suica," JR West Japan's "ICOCA," and so o­n.

Inspired by:
http://pc.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/2005/0620/yodobashi.htm

Press Release:
http://www.yodobashi.com/enjoy/more/contents/39956954.html

Sony Finance International:
http://www1.sonyfinance.co.jp/