MasterCard is testing a number of methods such as facial identification, voice recognition, fingerprints and even cardiac rhythm to improve authentication and replace traditional processes requiring the cardholder to remember PINs or passwords.

To avoid scammers simply taking a selfie of a photograph, the technology will require the user to blink when taking the photo. Orwellian concerns aside, this promises to remove friction from the buying process by using already-ubiquitous technologies such as wireless phones.

Another nail in the coffin for the plastic payment card.