O2 Wallet: Oyster card, Barclaycard and phone in one

What concerns us most about O2 Wallet isn't all the technical details, most of which will be solved somehow. No, what worries us is that in order to use this system you have to pull your mobile out all the time. Whether it's to pay for a pack of chewing gum or leave a station, you have to show your phone to the world, and as Londoners know, exposing your expensive gadgetry to all and sundry isn't always advisable.

But O2 Wallet doesn't have to be a complete replacement and most likely won't be. It was clear from the launch today that how this system is finally used is still up in the air. Will this virtual wallet replace your current wallet? Probably not -- but it will come in very handy when you've forgotten your credit card at home or lost your Oyster card and need a quick and easy backup solution. -Andrew Lim