Intro to NFC Technology: What It Is And How It Works

NFC stands for Near Field Communication, a miniaturized communication technology that allows two devices to communicate with each other by touching them together or bringing them in close proximity. It is the most straightforward and convenient way to transfer small amounts of data such as contact details or a unique url to a mobile experience. It's a quick and easy way that you can use and it doesn't require mobile apps to work.

NFC stands for Near Field Communication, a short-range wireless technology that enables contactless data exchange between two devices. In simple terms, it lets two devices exchange information when they're tapped together. 

Think of it like a super-powered high five. One device (usually your phone) acts as the reader, while the other (the NFC tag) holds the info.

It is the most straightforward and convenient way to transfer small amounts of data such as contact details or a unique url to a mobile experience. It's secure and speedy, without needing an app or complicated setups.

How NFC works

When an NFC-enabled device, like a smartphone, comes into close proximity with an NFC tag, the tag transmits a small burst of data using electromagnetic induction.

There are two main parts involved:

1. NFC tags: These are small, passive devices containing an embedded NFC chip. NFC tags come in various shapes and sizes, often disguised as stickers or badges for seamless integration into everyday objects.
2. NFC reader: This can be your smartphone or other device with an NFC chip. It reads the information from the tag or even writes new information to it.

It works by holding your phone close to an NFC tag, typically a sticker or embedded chip. Your phone will buzz, indicating it has detected the tag, and often prompt you to open a specific URL. Once confirmed, the website will load and the corresponding mobile experience will begin.

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Ways NFC tags are used

The potential applications of NFC tags are vast and constantly evolving. Here are some prominent examples of how NFC technology is currently utilized:

Contactless Payments

NFC has revolutionized mobile payment systems. By securely storing payment credentials within a digital wallet on your phone, you can tap your device at compatible terminals to make purchases quickly and conveniently.

Marketing Promotions

Marketing campaigns have embraced NFC by embedding tags within posters or flyers. Tapping these tags with your phone can instantly redirect you to a website, display a product video, or provide additional product information.

Public Transportation

Many cities have adopted NFC technology for their public transit systems. Passengers can tap their travel cards embedded with NFC chips at designated readers to seamlessly pay fares.

Smart Homes

NFC plays a key role in the burgeoning smart home ecosystem. Imagine tapping your phone on an NFC tag near your doorway to automatically adjust lighting settings or activate your smart thermostat – a glimpse into the future of home automation.

How secure is NFC?

While not foolproof, NFC is generally considered to be a secure way to share information. A few reasons include:

• Short range: To steal info, someone would need to be uncomfortably close to you with a special reader, making it unlikely.
• Encryption: NFC scrambles the information being shared, so even if someone intercepts it, they can't understand it.
• Extra checks: Often, your phone or device needs your fingerprint or PIN before using NFC for payments, adding another layer of security.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the size of an NFC tag?

The size of an NFC tag is approximately 25 millimeters, about the size of a coin and as flat as a piece of paper.

What is the range of an NFC?

A typical NFC used by Tappr works between 3cm and 8 cm. It varies based on the type of NFC you are using, with high-frequency NFC you can experience ranges as high as 30 centimeters.

Do NFC tags have a battery?

An NFC tag does not have a battery. The power for the NFC tag comes entirely from the mobile phone.

What is the price of an NFC tag?

It depends on the tag type, encoding of the tag and the volume of tags ordered. Often, the most basic tags start at 0.15 cent per piece when bought in bulk.