After Gene Munster prediction’s another analyst reinforce the rumor of a possible presence of NFC in the next iPhone 5 and iPad2.

According to Richard Doherty analyst, co-founder and Director, of Envisioneering Group cites “engineers who are working on hardware” for Apple’s latest project in asserting what that project actually is: NFC capabilities are apparently being built into the next generation of iPhone and iPad devices.

Richard Doherty also predicts that Apple will make its move into the NFC field with some new hardware and an accompanying “revamp” of iTunes.

The potential customer scenario would be to allow the use of iTunes gift card balances and the credit card info Apple already has from you to make swiping payments at compatible retail outlets.

This usage scenario is very close to the actual Felica services implemented in Japan with more than 60 millions of contact-less handset on which you can load cash with you credit card on-line or with cash in convenience outlet like 7 Eleven or ÆON retail stores.

Considering recent patents, Apple is certainly planning new services using NFC for it’s next generation of products.

Certainly, but when ?