What is NFC and what is it for

1 year ago

NFC They are the acronym of "Near Field Communication", a short -range wireless communication standard. It provides great security in the data exchange process and allows, among other things, to make payments through services such as Google Pay or Samsung Pay.

Although it has some limitations of use compared to the operation of the Bluetooth and the WiFi, the NFC is present in many types of smart devices, from smartphones -even in many cheap mobiles -and even in most of the best smartwatches that exist in the market.

If you want to know more about the NFC and its main qualities, continue reading.

Table
  1. How the NFC works
  2. How to install NFC on your mobile if you don't have it

How the NFC works

Actually, NFC is not a new technology. Basically, NFC becomes an advanced version of RFID technology, or radio frequency identification, which is quite old. In fact, if you are familiar with the use of cards to open hotel doors or to enter a building, then you know what the NFC is about.

Both the operation of the NFC and the RFID is possible thanks to the principle of inductive coupling. When you bring your device with NFC label to a reader device, this will generate a magnetic field that will be responsible for carrying out the pairing without cables. Once the wireless contact is completed, data transfer begins immediately.

One of its main advantages is the speed of pairing, which is quite useful to use with devices compatible with this technology and that, for example, do not have screen. Just bring them closer and ready.

Thanks to the NFC, you can make contactless payments through services such as Google Pay and Apple Pay, as with many credit and debit cards. You can also pay in public transport services from the world's main capitals with just bringing the mobile closer to a reader.

It is also compatible with platforms to control devices in intelligent homes, such as Apple Home Assistant and Homekit, and can even be used in video game consoles such as Nintendo Switch. For example, there are action figures that incorporate NFC chips. As you bring this toy to your console, you receive accessories for games, collectible items, etc.

How to install NFC on your mobile if you don't have it

NFC technology is already present in much of smartphones that can be found in the market. There are many apps on Google Play Store or Apple Store that allow you to know if your mobile has NFC or not, if you have doubts, or you can also look at the specifications on the manufacturer's website.

Once proven, if your mobile has no NFC and you want to be able to use your mobile as if it were a bank card, you have several options.

You will not have to change the hardware the mobile or install anything in it. The simplest thing is to go to your bank office and request an NFC sticker. Thus, you can use this technology and pay with your credit cards on your mobile. When you use it, you will have to enter the pin of your card or unlock code of your mobile, so it is totally safe.

You can also buy yourself an NFC card at any establishment where technology products or in large online stores such as Amazon or Aliexpress sell.

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