The Vendor Matrix is an analytical tool developed by ABI Research to provide a clear understanding of vendors’ positions in specific markets. In this Vendor Matrix, the focus is specifically on ICs developed for and delivered to the contactless payment, ticketing and NFC markets. For this particular matrix, under „“innovation,““ ABI Research examined the companies’ product and manufacturing innovations, their experience, leadership, and knowledge transfer, their relevance to the global market, and the breadth of their product offerings. Under „“implementation,““ ABI Research scrutinized the following criteria: the companies’ share of the potential and addressed markets, their global sales and support capabilities, the breadth of the contactless markets they serve, and the reach of their multi-regional product delivery. ABI Research principal analyst Jonathan Collins comments, “NXP continues to lead the Contactless IC Vendor Matrix rankings with the scope, reach and success of its contactless IC business. In second place, Inside Contactless has gained ground, with its success and key focus in all markets covered in our Vendor Matrix.” www.abiresearch.com/products/vendor_matrix/Contactless_IC_Vendor_Matrix