Apple’s Patent-Pending Passbook Updates Could Transform Shopping

A newly discovered patent application hints that Apple is planning to update its Passbook digital-coupon storage app with Near-Field Communication (NFC) technology. This means future iPhone and iPod touch products may come with location-based technology that displays relevant coupons and gift cards as soon as you're near a store. Apple Insider discovered that the Cupertino-based company filed a new patent application for "Integrated coupon storage, discover and redemption system" with the U.S. P...