Dive Summary:
- A patent application filed by Apple and published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark office last week outlines a concept for an "Integrated coupon storage, discovery, and redemption system" that would work with the iOS Passbook app.
- The introduction of Near-Field Communication (NFC) technology could allow Passbook to present consumers with coupons or gift cards when they are close to stores.
- Whether or not Apple intends to actually integrate these changes with Passbook remains unclear.
From the article:
"... Apple's specific claims revolve around mobile-coupon storage, aspects of redemption and location-based notifications. With Apple's proposed "integrated coupon storage," patrons will be able to walk into stores and receive notifications about items for which they have coupons. After the transaction is complete, the customer will receive a digital receipt wirelessly. Alerts will also be pushed for coupons with impending expiration dates. The patent also mentions a verification system for coupons and discounts. ..."
