Out of change? Whip out
the flip-phone

Already a part of life in countries like Japan, the UK's top five mobile carriers have signed on to turn mobile phones into digital wallets.

PayForIt's technology will allow mobile users to buy goods and services valued up to £10, according to BBC News.

Potential purchases include ringtones, train tickets, fees at parking meters, and, eventually, sales of goods made at e-stores accessed via web-enabled phones.

Operators pushed the new technology to replace other payment options such as premium rate SMS. They say PayForIt is better as users will know who they are buying from and what exactly they're spending through an information screen detailing purchases.

It's possible the technology comes too little and too late. Yesterday Apple released an iPod that boasts all the features of its iPhone, including wireless functionality and a browser for a more familiar surf-and-purchase experience.