The upgrade will be a choice, not a forceful one. These bankers say it as if it's a forced change that everyone has to change all at one at a cost of 6.75b. You always hear that argument but not one single explanation that for those retailers that don't want to, they can continue to use the mag-stripe on the back. Why? Is it because they're just plain stupid or are they trying to hide the fact that they don't want to go out all alone for a problem that they've let it build due to their incompetance?

It's the same as no one is FORCED to upgrade to Windows 7. Did Microsoft FORCE you to upgrade to Windows 7? Did Microsoft stick a gun to the consumer's head to say "everyone needs to upgrade to Windows 7 for better security and web surfing?" No. Sure they'll tout it as the next best thing since sliced bread, but consumers of Microsoft are well aware that even if Windows 7 comes out, they don't have to line up at BestBuy that day to get their hands on it. The consumers and businesses make that choice. They'll upgrade when they see fit. Some people want the latest one so they'll get it when it comes out. Others see their 98/Me/2000/XP/Vista to be just as fine and upgrade it later or when their computer reaches the end of life; still the same, still can web-surf, still can open documents and spreadsheets. But sooner or later many will move on when their old swipe and sign terminals breaksdown due to wear and tear or manufacturers of those terminals have stopped making them and it has become more expensive to repair than to replace.

But at least Microsoft gives us the option to upgrade or not. That's the key thing that I have the frustration with. We have no option here in the US even if we want one. Nada, zilch, zero. Not one single major US bank offers such a card for those who want one. Heck, I've been saying it again, I'd be willing to pay for the card if it exists. But none.