You will be able to use Maestro PayPass cards in London, as part of a UK industry-wide launch of "contactless" technology. The first phase of the launch will take place between The City and Canary Wharf in early September 2007. Further widespread rollout of PayPass in the rest of the UK is expected during 2008.

As the initial launch gets underway, card issuers will upgrade cards whilst businesses upgrade their payment terminals to accept contactless payments. Banks will be contacting their customers and will provide full details as they join the rollout. The payment card industry estimates that over 5 million contactless cards will be issued by the end of 2008, and that they will be accepted by over 100,000 merchant locations. Consumers who do not receive a card in the initial launch or who live outside London, should apply directly to their bank.

1,000 merchants have already signed up to accept contactless cards during the London launch, including Eat, Coffee Republic, YO! Sushi, Krispy Kreme, Books etc., Threshers and the Science Museum.

Check back here in the coming weeks for our interactive merchant locator!