Despite the oft-repeated declarations of industry talking heads, NFC or Near-Field Communications technology hasn’t yet taken the mobile world by storm. Infrastructure is increasing, but only a few handfuls of newer mobile phones and tablets actually carry the software. One major block to expansion has just been hurdled, though: Visa cleared Android and Blackberry mobile devices for Visa’s payWire programme.

Currently, PayPal, Google Wallet, and the soon-arriving ISIS system either already have NFC apps designed or will have shortly. Visa is the first credit card to approve NFC technology.

Visa certified only a few devices, however, Those that did include Samsung Galaxy S II and the LG Optimus NET NFC. Although both US and European markets gained the nod, none of the US’s Samsung devices given the clear signal have NFC technology.

RIM’s BlackBerry models given Visa’s clearance for payWire include the Bold 9790, the Bold 9900, the Curve 9360 and the Curve 9380.

To date, neither Android nor BlackBerry seem to have payWire apps available, but with the approval in the bag, there should be some available soon.

NFC technology, in this scenario, allows a quick payment method that registers transactions and debits with a wave of the mobile phone – with the app activated – in front of the bar code scanner.

In extended, theoretical applications, vendors, businesses and even strangers could learn information about an NFC-bearing mobile phone user. All the NFC-person has to do is walk by a scanner.

Network providers believe that NFC technology will allow greater fringe coverage with stronger signals: If connectivity is tied to NFC transceivers, which are smaller and less costly to maintain than service hubs, users will stride from signal point to signal point, granting continuity and confidence.

Opponents of the extended applications voice concerns about privacy issues and identity theft. As technology advances, so hackers follow and adapt.

As you determine for what you might use NFC technology, remember first and foremost that mobile phones are the cause of more cases of identity theft than stolen credit cards or applications. Lock your phone from unauthorized use, and keep abreast of all mobile phone security alerts.