'No cash or card? No problem!': Couple stunned by this country’s futuristic 'palm pay' tech

Technology in today’s environment is literally at our fingertips, with people adapting to the convenience it brings in this rapidly evolving world. Digital currency is one particular aspect of this big change that is relatively easier than carrying cash. While many countries are still working on implementing contactless payment systems, some rare ones have gone a step ahead. Amazed by China’s tech prowess, a traveling couple recently shared their unusual shopping experience in the East Asian country. Hailing from the United Kingdom, Ben and Reanne—who go by @otwd_travel on TikTok—left their phone and wallet at the hotel and went to buy groceries from a local store. What happened next left them speechless.

“Forgot your phone and card? Don’t worry, you can pay with …” read the caption of the video shared by the English couple. It showed Ben walking into a small convenience store to buy a packet of Lay’s Wasabi-flavored crisps and a water bottle. Meanwhile, Reanne accompanied him as the couple reached the checkout counter to settle their dues. At this point, Ben hinted about the tech advancements in the People’s Republic. “This is how advanced the cashless payment system is in this country,” the traveler said while looking into the camera. Following this, the cashier scanned the purchased items, prompting him to pay the bill.

Instead, the video creator said, “So now I’m going to pay for it - but I’ve left my phone and my card at home; I’ve actually got nothing.” Ben then turned his hand towards a small scanner in front of the counter. To his surprise, as he brought his palm closer to the machine, the payment was immediately completed. He exclaimed in astonishment, “Palm pay,” which made the storekeeper giggle as well. “How crazy?” asked Reanne, echoing the sentiment as they left the store. Apparently, the Chinese cashless payment system impressed the couple, leaving their minds completely “blown” away.

“This country is blowing my mind!” reiterated Ben, hailing the Asian nation. “I just paid with my palm!” he added in the one-minute-and-twenty-second footage. The excitement was completely visible on their faces. Ben then went on to share the process that helped him set up the “palm payment.” “You register your palm - I did it earlier today with WeChat [a Chinese instant messaging app]. Set your card up and no matter where you are in the world, you can pay with your palm print,” remarked the travel enthusiast.

Moreover, Ben briefly touched on the technology that enables people to pay with their palm prints. Adding to it, Reanne said, “It’s to do with the vessels in there, we’ve been told - how clever is that? It’s literally one of the best things I’ve ever seen.” The video showing the contactless payment technology in China garnered nearly 3 million views, attracting a mix of reactions online. @4wallsc claimed, “It’s so advanced in China because of the social credit system; it’s a form of control. If you do something the government doesn’t like, they can stop you from buying things.” “Have you ever considered what privacy you’ve given up?” @mickgleeson questioned.

You can follow Ben and Reanne, aka Travel Couple (@otwd_travel), on TikTok for more travel-related content.