The feature is safe and simple. Find out what it is and learn how to use it, making your day-to-day life easier!
Advances in technology have helped us a lot in many daily tasks, including paying bills and making transactions using our cell phones quickly, conveniently and securely. One of the technologies that enables this type of process is NFC, a wireless communication method found in many cell phones that works by bringing two devices together. In addition to smartphones, this feature can also be found in card machines, ATMs, public transport terminals and others.
Do you already know this technology and how it works? Read the full article and find out more!
NFC
Near Field Communication is a technology that allows two devices to exchange information when they come close to each other, facilitating communication between devices and offering more convenience and security for users. It was created by Sony and Philips in 2002.
The feature's specification mentions a maximum distance of 10 centimeters, but in practice, a shorter distance is required for it to work. Therefore, the connection is established when two compatible devices are close together.
On smartphones, the function is provided by a component that sends and receives data. Generally, premium Android phones and some mid-range phones have the NFC chip, as well as the iPhone 6 and newer.
NFC is considered a more advanced version of RFID, a radio frequency technology that is used in badges and hotel keys, however, it operates at a frequency of 13.56 MHz. The technology is considered safe for users, as it only works over short distances.
NFC devices can be active or passive. Active devices have their own power source and can send and receive information, which is the case with cell phones, payment terminals and public transport terminals. Passive devices need an active chip to obtain power and only emit data, which is the case with credit and debit cards and transport cards.
Payments
The main use of technology in cell phones is to free up means of digital payments, as Apple Pay, Samsung Pay and Android Pay. Cell phones that have NFC technology can replace your credit or debit card when making purchases at locations with compatible machines.
If the cell phone does not have the technology, it cannot be used as digital wallet. The exception is some Samsung cell phones, which have an MST chip, which simulates the magnetic stripe of cards and allows use in payment terminals.
How to use
In addition to payment functions, NFC can also be used to transfer small amounts of data between two devices. These include:
Smartphone sharing
The technology can serve as a bridge for two cell phones to exchange links, connection passwords, contacts and messages, as well as being able to send photos and videos in combination with Bluetooth.
Pairing
NFC can also connect with Bluetooth or Wi-Fi Direct to help pair your phone with accessories like cameras, headphones, smartwatches, and more.
Tags
Accessories that work with passive chips contain commands for the cell phone. After configuration, they can function as a physical button to open applications and activate routines on the smartphone. With this, the user can place the cell phone on the tag and be able to activate silent mode, turn off Wi-Fi, program alarms and more. If in the car, the user can also activate Bluetooth and open Google Maps when placing the cell phone on the holder.
Locks
It can also be used to open doors with digital locks, just like hotel door cards.
Cell phones
iPhones from model 6 onwards have NFC technology. To find out if your Android phone has the chip, simply go to “Network Settings” or “Connected Devices” and select “Connections”. Then look for “NFC” or “NFC and contactless payments” and check if the option is active.
