NFC (Near Field Communication) is a short-range wireless communication technology that uses RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) to identify specific objects and devices and read stored information. This technology is closely integrated into our daily lives, being used in mobile wallets, office access cards, and even self-checkout systems.
Here are some key features of NFC:
- Short-range communication: NFC’s sensing range is usually within 4 centimeters, ensuring communication security and precision.
- Fast pairing: Connections between NFC devices are established very quickly, simply by bringing two devices close together.
- Low power consumption: NFC uses very low power, making it suitable for small devices that require long standby times.
- Versatile applications: NFC can be used for mobile payments (e.g., Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay), identity verification, data exchange (e.g., contacts, photos), and public transportation ticketing.
Five Common Applications of NFC
1. Contactless Mobile Payments
Simply bring your phone close to the payment terminal to complete a secure and fast payment without carrying cash or bank cards. This payment method is widely used in supermarkets, restaurants, retail stores, and more.
Apple
Apple introduced Passbook in 2012, which was renamed “Apple Wallet” in 2015 with the release of iOS 9. Apple Wallet supports both iOS and WatchOS systems, allowing you to link credit cards from multiple banks, transportation cards, boarding passes, event tickets, hotel reservations, digital car keys, and smart locks. With NFC technology, you can use Apple Wallet to make payments, enter events, pay for transportation, board planes, and unlock vehicles (such as unlocking your Gogoro with Apple Wallet).
Google Pay is a mobile payment service launched by Google in 2015 (originally called Android Pay). In 2018, Google integrated Google Wallet and Android Pay into Google Pay, and in 2022, it was renamed Google Wallet (the payment service is still called Google Pay). Using NFC technology, Google Wallet can be used for payments, boarding, public transportation (such as EasyCard), displaying membership cards, event tickets, and digital car keys.
Samsung
Samsung Pay is a mobile payment service launched by Samsung in 2015 and is now integrated with Samsung Wallet. Samsung Wallet combines NFC and MST technology, allowing it to be used not only on NFC terminals but also on other types of terminals. Samsung Wallet can be used for payments, boarding, public transportation (such as EasyCard), unlocking digital home electronic locks, and cars.
2. Contactless Public Transportation Systems
Many cities’ public transportation systems have adopted NFC technology for ticket verification. Passengers can complete ticket verification and fare deduction by simply bringing an NFC-enabled phone or transportation card close to the validator, making it convenient and fast.
Apple Wallet
Apple Wallet can currently use transportation cards and credit cards for public transportation. However, it is important to note that only cards supporting “Express Mode” can be authenticated without unlocking the iPhone. Currently, Taiwan’s transportation cards do not support Express Mode.
Android Phones in Taiwan
Android phones in Taiwan can use transportation card functions by replacing their SIM card with an NFC SIM card. Each telecom provider’s wallet app can then be used to tap in and out of stations. Samsung Pay’s EasyCard functionality is the most comprehensive. By enabling the NFC function, users can tap to enter even if the phone is locked or out of battery, and it also allows online top-ups via credit card.
3. Digital Identity Verification
NFC identity verification methods are applicable for verifying chip-enabled IDs, and it is becoming a trend with chip passports now used in over 120 countries worldwide, as well as eIDs issued by many countries.
The main advantage of using NFC for identity verification is its convenience. When performing NFC identity verification, no card reader is required; only a mobile phone and a chip-enabled ID are needed. The process can be completed in a short time, and since the information is read directly from the chip, the accuracy rate is 100%.
Currently, both personal certificates and passports contain RFID chips that store identity information. By using an NFC reader, the information can be sensed and read, and the digital signature within the secure chip can be verified.
Learn more: Authme NFC Verification
Taiwan FidO
In Taiwan, the Citizen Digital Certificate can be used for filing individual income tax returns, vehicle license tax, checking labor insurance, labor pension, household registration, insurance, financial services, and more. Traditionally, a card reader is required for these services. However, in addition to NFC, you can now bind the certificate directly to a mobile app via the “Mobile Citizen Digital Certificate,” allowing for faster access to government services!
Apply Now: Taiwan FidO
4. File Transfer Between Phones
In addition to using Airdrop or Bluetooth, NFC can also be used to transfer contact information, photos, documents, map locations, and app data from one phone to another. This is particularly convenient for sharing information with friends.
Using NameDrop on iPhone to Share Contact Information
Apple uses UWB (Ultra-Wide Band) communication technology to transmit contact information, photos, and other files. With the updates to iOS 17.1 and watchOS 10.1, you can use NameDrop to share information with nearby iPhones or Apple Watches. Simply bring the tops of the devices close together to start the transfer.
5. Device Pairing
NFC technology can also be used for quick pairing of Bluetooth devices such as headphones, speakers, and smart car systems. Simply bring the NFC-enabled devices close together to automatically complete the pairing process, eliminating the hassle of manual setup.
Authme NFC Verification
When reviewing documents, it is crucial to verify their authenticity. Authme combines AI and computer vision technology to quickly capture document data and verify its authenticity. Authme provides the highest level of security, ensuring 100% data authenticity through its patented NFC technology. Three key features enhance the user experience of verification:
- Replace Traditional Card Readers
Leverage mobile devices’ NFC capabilities to detect and read ID documents effortlessly and eliminate the dependency on traditional card readers. - Exclusive Data Retrieval
Unlocks secure chips to access and authenticate identity information and attain high-resolution document photos. This precise process ensures that every detail is verified directly from the source. - Customs Equivalent Security
Guarantee 100% data authenticity by validating chip-embedded ID documents with official digital signatures, mirroring the security protocols of international customs.
Learn more details and feel free to contact us
