What is NFC?

What is NFC?

Near Field Communication or 'NFC', for short is a short-range wireless technology that lets two electronic devices, such as a smartphone and a reader, to share small amounts of data when they touch or are located a short distance apart.

Used for short rage communications between devices, it is derived from RFID technology, an abbreviation of 'Radio Frequency Identification', and operates at 13.56 MHz.

RFID technology is built directly into many modern smartphones, smartwatches and payment cards, even being included in items such as passports and food labels. As it only functions when in very close, physical proximity, usually 4 cm or less, it is very secure against remote hacking and eavesdropping.

How NFC Works

NFC relies on the electromagnetic induction between two loop antennas.

  • The Initiator: An active device, such as a smartphone, creates a tiny magnetic field.
  • The Target: When a passive device, such as a contactless card or a sticker tag enters the magnetic field, it powers up automatically without needing its own battery.
  • No Manual Pairing: Unlike Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, there is no password or discovery phase required, simply tapping to connect.

Everyday Uses

Contactless Payments

Mobile wallets such as Apple Pay, Google Wallet and Samsung Pay are setup and installed on smartphones, using the details from physical bank cards. This allows for payments to be made using a smartphone or smartwatch which is NFC enabled, at retail payment terminals.

Public Transit & Transport

Tapping through ticket barriers using smartphones or smart cards is widely used on public transport systems, while NFC technology is used to store data digitally on passports, for personal data to be accessed instantly by airport staff.

Instant Device Pairing

NFC technology can be used to quickly link, or pair a device with other, wireless devices such as speakers or headphones, which will then use other technologies such as Bluetooth, to transmit sound wirelessly.

Smart Tags

Tags are used to read NFC enabled stickers on posters, menus or gym equipment to open links, or to access services or areas of a building.

Keyless Access

NFC technology can be used to setup secure access to offices, hotel rooms and compatible modern vehicles, allowing for quick and secure access to unlock doors.

In Summary

NFC, an abbreviation of 'Near Field Communication', is a wireless technology and communication protocol which allows electronic devices to exchange data when they are placed within a few centimetres of each other.

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