Chinese mobile phone maker Coolpad has formally joined the Near Field Communication Forum to distribute in near field wireless communication applications such as mobile phone payment.

Gu Yong, brand and market director for Coolpad, told local media that the company already started research and distribute in this sector a few years ago and it has invested a lot in the development of NFC terminals. At present, Coolpad has completed the development of a prototype and is expected to launch its first NFC handset by the end of this year.

Coolpad said it has currently teamed with Chinese telecom operators, banks, and public transportation units for the testing and commercial use of NFC handsets.

Formed in 2004, the Near Field Communication Forum aims to advance the use of Near Field Communication technology by developing specifications, ensuring interoperability among devices and services, and educating the market about NFC technology. It currently has 150 members, including manufacturers, applications developers, and financial services institutions.