Abstract: A mobile terminal is disclosed which includes a near field or RF ID tag (41). The mobile terminal (1) communicates with the mobile telecommunications network and is authenticated with that network using the SIM (15). The mobile terminal (1) is operable to obtain security data from the user thereof, such as a PIN or biometric data, or the mobile terminal (1) incorporates a sensor such as a light sensor, pressure sensor, heat sensor, skin resistant sensor or inertial sensor. The input device or sensor is used to confirm the identity of the user or to evaluate whether the user wishes to use the near field tag (41) to make a payment or obtain entry to a building (for example). Data from the sensor is passed to the SIM (15), which issues a command enabling the near field tag (41), via link (43). The near field tag (41) may then be read by a reader.

Abstract: A half-duplex communication system is embodied in a push-to-talk cellular system such as a GPRS system. The system includes two or more terminals (10) one or more of which can operate in a hands-free mode. When in hands-free mode, a terminal (10) is offered the right-to-speak by the system without the need for a talk request from a user. This allows a hands-free user to participate safely in a call.