Wearable tech just got a bold new makeover thanks to retailer Topshop. Next Tuesday sees the high street giant launch a collection of colourful and quirky accessories that incorporate contactless payment technology, meaning you can swipe a wristband, keyring, phone case or sticker to pay for anything – be it a coffee, sandwich or make-up – up to the value of £30.

If an Apple Watch has been out of your financial reach, then these smart gadgets certainly provide a refreshing alternative to rummaging around for loose change. Each item contains a small bPay contactless chip that is linked to a secure digital wallet, which can be topped up via a mobile app or automatically when funds fall below a pre-set level. bPay is run by Barclaycard, but anyone with a UK-registered Visa or MasterCard debit or credit card can sign up for the service.

My favourite is the goggely-eyed sticker, which you could use to accessorise a pouch or a notebook. The 12-piece collection ranges in price from an affordable £15 to £32, and Topshop is planning to launch a more grown-up designs in metal and snake-effect later on in the year.

Those not convinced by the security credentials should remember that the chip works exactly like a normal bank card, so all it takes a phonecall or log-in to cancel a missing accessory.

Via The Telegraph