Sometimes on phone reviews I read that a certain model, often one released in a Western market, uses NFC for payment. In my country, mobile payments use QR codes so any phone with a camera can use them. Does NFC have any advantage over such a system?
The difference is, phone companies and card providers between them can more easily lock down and restrict who has access to NFC compatible apps. There are no rogue payment apps popping up to challenge the status quo.
So they see more use in richer countries