The developers of Ethereum messaging application and mobile browser Status announced the release of a new version of their cryptocurrency hardware wallet. The product is called Keycard and will be available for beta testing in March.

Announcing @Keycard_ the secure, contactless hardwallet & open source API. Keycard APIs are their own smartcards. Learn more and get a free card https://t.co/u0EwfpwMFU

– Status (@ethstatus) February 13, 2019

The company's blog says that Keycard is a new type of hardware wallet with an open API that allows you to safely store, receive and send cryptocurrencies in a contactless way.

According to the developers, Keycard is a sequel to Hardwallet, which was introduced in November 2017 at Devcon3 in Mexico City.

“The blockchain landscape has changed significantly since then. There are new wallets and countless tokens, while thousands of new developers contribute to the development of the ecosystem. Keycard is a natural reflection of these changes, ”the message says.

In size, the device is similar to traditional bank cards and can be not only integrated with other wallets and hardware, but allows you to create your own smart cards.

Unlike most other hardware wallets, Keycard uses NFC technology to access private keys. This makes it possible to sign and verify transactions by simply touching the device to a mobile phone.

The new device is compatible with most of the most popular cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Litecoin, Ripple, Ethereum and ERC-20 tokens, and can also be used with the desktop application via a USB connection.

It should be noted that the exact dates when the Keycard will be available to the general public are not named yet. At the initial stage, the creators want to get the necessary feedback and therefore offer a device for developers for free . In the future, when the device goes into mass production, its price, as stated, will be $ 29.

Recall that in January a new hardware wallet with Bluetooth support was introduced by Ledger.

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