NFC is a secure and simple-to-use technology. Learn more details!
Near Field Communication (NFC) technology allows contactless payments and other applications. It is found in mid-range and premium cell phones. Users of iPhone 6 or later have access to the technology, while Android users can check the technology in the system settings.
Cell phones can perform different functions through NFC, but the capabilities vary depending on the operating system version and the model of the device. Older iPhones, such as the 8, cannot read NFC tags, so when they do, they only make payments.
Find out how to identify if your cell phone supports NFC technology and discover how to use it!
What is NFC?
Near Field Communication is a technology that allows the exchange of information between two devices when they come close to each other. The technology facilitates communication between devices and offers greater safety and comfort to users. It was created in 2002 by the companies Sony and Philips.
For it to work, a maximum distance of 10 centimeters between the two devices is required. Thus, the connection is established, if both devices are compatible.
In cell phones, the function is enabled by a component that emits and receives data. NFC is considered a more updated version of RFID, a technology used in badges and hotel keys, and is considered secure, as it only works over short distances.
Technology devices can be active or passive. Active devices have their own power source and can send or receive information, as is the case with cell phones. Passive devices need a chip to obtain power and only emit data, which is the case with credit cards and debit.
How do you know if your Android phone has it?
You can check whether an Android phone has the technology by accessing the system settings. To do this:
- Open the “Settings” app on your phone;
- Type NFC in the menu search bar;
- If so, you need to activate the key.
Another way to check is to access the official website of your cell phone brand. Search for the model name of the device and find the product page. Go to the “Spec”, “Specifications” or “Technical specifications” menu and search for the term NFC.
You can also consult the manual to check if your phone is supported. You can also see other information about connectivity, Wi-Fi version, Bluetooth, and others.
How to check if iPhone has it?
To check if your iPhone is supported, simply search for the model specifications on Apple's website. iPhone 6 and later are supported and accept payments via Apple Pay, however, not all models work, such as tag readers.
My phone doesn't have NFC. Can I install it?
Unable to install. NFC is a wireless technology that requires specific hardware to work, including an antenna and a chip, which must come from the factory on the phone.
What is it for?
NFC-enabled cell phones can make payments by approximation via Google Pay, Samsung Pay or Apple Pay; access locks and gates; add home automation devices; read credentials and others.
On cell phones, functions vary according to the model and system version.
On the iPhone, in addition to payment functions, you can also use NFC as a car key, tag reader and app clip. In this case, the tools work on iPhone 8 or later phones.
