That big slab ‘o plastic that seems to be the Wii U controller just got a whole lot more interesting.

The unique controller for the upcoming Nintendo console will use NFC (Near Field Communication) technology to allow users to read and write data, and also pay for things with compatible bank and credit cards – like London Oyster card work, or as Barclaycards seem to.

Iwata announced this feature at the investors financial briefing, saying:

“By installing this functionality, it will become possible to create cards and figurines that can electronically read and write data via noncontact NFC and to expand the new play format in the video game world,” said Iwata.

“Adoption of this functionality will enable various other possibilities such as using it as a means of making micropayments.”

Certainly sounds like an interesting concept, and being able to transfer data between the console and the controller, or even between two controllers certainly makes things sound very interesting indeed.

Source: ONM