La NFC technology It is increasingly present, both on mobile devices and on other devices. What it is and how to get the most out of it, so that users can fully exploit the possibilities of these new technologies that allow devices to communicate with each other and with networks and unique proposals.
NFC is the acronym for Near-Field Communication, or Near Field Communication. There are still many users who do not know or ignore it if they can add NFC to compatible devices. That is why it is relevant to explore the scope and functions that NFC allows, to pay attention to future purchases of a mobile phone or tablet.
What is NFC explained simply
It is a technology for wireless communication between devices high frequency and short range. It is used to exchange data between two compatible devices and a radius of action of 15 centimeters. Some consider it an evolution of the infrared transmission used by some mobile phones in the past.
Communication via NFC is done through the induction process. The spiral antennas of the devices create a magnetic field that allows data to be transferred. It works through two different protocols:
The passive protocol, where one device generates the magnetic field and the other uses this energy to transfer data. The most common example is a mobile phone reading an NFC card or tag.
The active protocol, where both devices generate their own magnetic field for data transmission. This occurs between two mobile phones or NFC devices when transferring data to each other.
Technology for identity validation
NFC technology works at very slow speeds. That is why it is mainly used for user identity validation. To transmit files, we talk about 106, 212, 424 or 848 Kbit/s, very slow compared to Bluetooth or Wi-Fi Direct.
The most widespread uses of NFC
The NFC proposal and what drives its use stands out for the synchronization and identification of devices. By requiring close proximity, NFC makes it easy to identify certain devices, accessing credentials and special files that guarantee the user's identity. Currently, it is used to automate certain actions (identifying credit cards, opening locks), and there are even cars that allow entry and start via NFC.
Identification of individuals
NFC is the fastest growing technology to identify people today. You can pass an NFC device on public transport, load travel cards or carry our identity document and passport safely.
Automation of various actions and processes
All the NFC tags or key fobs can be configured so that a mobile fulfills certain actions when reading the label. The most common example is the tag configured to connect to the Internet. With this simple process, we forget to ask for the WiFi password in a restaurant, since the phone directly synchronizes and connects to the network. One of the most popular applications to carry out this action on Android is Trigger, which reads and performs the actions entrusted via NFC.
Mobile payments
All the digital payment platforms they are among those that most take advantage of NFC technology. Thanks to this technology, the user's identity can be validated and payment guaranteed through apps such as Google Pay, Samsung Pay or Apple Pay. Users can upload their card details and carry them directly on the device, without the risk of losing the physical version. As for payments, they are only made when we confirm using biometric data or a password to access the app, so we reduce the risk of identity theft and theft.
device synchronization
NFC is a technology that allows strengthening the linking and synchronization between devices. Can be used for link speakers and cameras, and in less than a second the devices connect via WiFi or Bluetooth to trigger the relevant actions. For example, we use NFC to instantly pair Bluetooth speakers and listen to our favorite music with higher quality and volume.
Access to content
The NFC began to develop thinking of happen to QR codes, avoiding the process of opening the camera and focusing on a code for reading. It is enough to bring the mobile phone close to a label to access the information contained therein. Technology today is not being fully exploited. There are various uses and alternatives to consider, but little by little they are expanding. In 2013, different European museums began to implement tourist guides via NFC, so that travelers can easily and quickly access the content.
Identification at ATMs
NFC technology turns your mobile phone into a plastic replacement for your credit or debit card. You can withdraw or deposit money to a compatible ATM in a few steps. All you have to do is bring your mobile device close to confirm identification and follow the usual steps of the cashier. The use of NFC explores, in its most recent uses, the possibility of reducing the transport of cards and physical money.
The future NFC
Confirmed its various benefits, the question arises about the future and the expansion of NFC among users. For NFC technology to succeed it definitely needs to be standardized. Even today there are users who they do not know if their mobiles are compatible with NFC. This is because its benefits have not been extended to all commercial and entertainment fields. There is no doubt that NFC offers advantages, but for the bulk of mobile users to consider it, the expansion must be even greater.
Conclusions
Near-Field Communication is a technology that has been advancing since its inception, but is still not as widely recognized as Bluetooth or WiFi. Its advantages allow greater security when identifying devices and synchronizing them, as well as carrying documentation and credit or debit cards converted directly on our phone.
It is possible that in the coming years confirm your standardization. In this way we would be talking about an essential technology for mobile phones and tablets, exactly as in the case of WiFi or Bluetooth today.
