SAN FRANCISCO, June 21 — Hands-free payment is turning out to be one of the biggest wearable tech trends of the year, and now a bracelet that hooks up to checking, Paypal and bitcoin accounts simultaneously is set to bring the concept to the masses.

“Token” syncs to a variety of payment accounts and apps to allow users to control their finances from one single device.

Aiming to encourage users to be “smarter consumers,” the device provides ‘personalised visualisations’, such as graphs, which force users to consider the consequences of any potential purchases on their overall finances before paying for them.

The bracelet also facilitates quick transactions such as transferring money to friends or children.

Token features a relatively simplistic design, with just four options available: “pay”, “give” (for transfers), “ask” (to request money) or “peek” (to check account stats).

A personalised security mechanism which functions via thumbprints or a password has been integrated to keep the device as safe as possible.

Currently in development, the prototype is part of the “Startefact” program which focuses on innovative technological solutions for the future.

Smart payment options are becoming increasingly popular—earlier this month UK bank Barclays revealed plans to expand its “bPay” wristband scheme.

Alternative product prototypes unveiled this year include Visa and the Heritage Bank’s “The Heritage Power Suit,” an outfit with a built-in payment chip sewn into its sleeve, and a “vein scanning” payment method by Quixter. — AFP-Relaxnews