Cash App made a magic wand for contactless payments

The convenience of contactless payments can already feel magical, but Cash App is really leaning into that with its latest accessory. The mobile payment service is launching the Cash App Wand: an NFC-enabled, iridescent, star-topped wand that allows users to make on-the-go payments without pulling out their phone or card. This plays on a popular DIY trend that’s already circulating on social media platforms, in which people are 3D printing (or otherwise constructing ) their own creative “cases” for contactless payment cards. Magic wands seem to be the most popular design, likely because the extra reach makes them convenient for drive-thru payments , but we’ve also seen giant Nintendo-themed coins — the only limitation being that your creation has to fit an actual payment card inside. Cash App’s alternative differs in that it’s more compact and uses a built-in NFC tag that pairs with an active Cash App Card. It comes with a keychain that you can attach to your belt or bag (provided you’re not worried about it being snatched, though this obviously doesn’t look like a card). The accessory is designed to appeal to teens, with Cash App noting that 1 in 5 teenagers in the US are already using its Cash App Card. …