This latest qualification supports handset manufacturers by enabling the leading payments consultancy and advanced testing provider to confirm compliance of near field communication (NFC) enabled mobile devices to the functional requirements laid out by the payment system.

"With US EMV chip migration moving forward, we are committed to supporting our US customers with the most complete range of services to support their contactless-ready EMV chip projects," comments Xavier Giandominici, Director at FIME America. "This qualification was an important step for us in offering a one-stop-shop to US NFC handset manufacturers, enabling them to qualify their products to all required specifications, quickly, cost effectively and successfully."

In late 2013, FIME also confirmed another important qualification for handset manufacturers. Visa accredited FIME EMEA laboratory to deliver Visa Mobile Payment Application (VMPA) testing to validate Visa payment applications on secure elements.

"The US has a unique opportunity to capitalize on the capabilities of EMV chip technology - contact, contactless and mobile NFC payments - all at once," adds Xavier. "Our extensive portfolio of consulting, testing and certification services supports the deployment of solutions that will inter-operate securely once live in the field to ensure the development of a stable and sustainable EMV chip and mobile payments ecosystem. We are delighted to expand our services to offer FIME customers the largest testing coverage in the Americas."