This article released by MiniTool group primarily focuses on a type of communication protocol between two electronic devices – NFC. It explains its definition and applications, particularly emphasizing its use on iPhones. Simply read the following content to gain a comprehensive understanding.

What Is NFC?

NFC, or Near-Field Communication, refers to a set of communication protocols enabling communication between two electronic devices within a distance of 4 cm (1.5 inches) or less. It establishes a low-complexity connection that can facilitate the establishment of more robust wireless connections.

Devices equipped with NFC (NFC-enabled devices) can serve as electronic identity credentials and access keys. They are employed in contactless payment systems, enabling mobile payments to complement or replace traditional methods such as credit cards and smart electronic tickets.

Thus, this technology is also referred to as CTLS NFC or NFC/CTLS. NFC can also be used to share files like music and contacts and to establish quick connections for sharing larger media such as photos and videos.

What Is NFC Tag Reader?

An NFC tag reader is an NFC device operating in NFC reader or writer mode, allowing it to read information stored on inexpensive NFC tags embedded in labels or smart posters. For an NFC device to function in reader/writer mode, it needs to cooperate with NFC-compatible application software.

NFC tags are passive data storage devices that can be read and, under certain conditions, written to by an NFC device. Generally, they store data and are read-only during regular use, though they may be rewritable. Applications include securely storing personal data such as credit or debit card information and personal identification numbers (PINs).

NFC tags can be custom-encoded by their manufacturers or follow industry standards.

NFC Devices

NFC facilitates one- or two-way communication between endpoints, making it suitable for numerous applications. The implementation of NFC technology spans various fields, including commerce, social networking, gaming, sports, and many others.

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1. Smartphones

Whether Android or iOS phones, their latest models all support NFC technology.

In Android 4.4, Google introduced platform support for NFC-based transactions through Host Card Emulation (HCE) for payments, card access, transit passes, loyalty programs, and other custom services.

HCE allows any Android 4.4 app to mimic an NFC smart card, enabling users to initiate transactions with their device. Apps can use a new reader mode to act as readers for HCE cards and other NFC-based transactions.

Samsung, Nokia, BlackBerry, and Sony have utilized NFC technology to pair Bluetooth headsets, speakers, and media players with a single tap. BlackBerry devices support NFC using BlackBerry Tag on devices running BlackBerry OS 7.0 and later. The same principle can be applied to configure Wi-Fi networks.

MasterCard extended additional NFC support for PayPass on the Android and BlackBerry platforms, enabling PayPass customers to make payments using their Android or BlackBerry handsets. A collaboration between Visa and Samsung added a payWave application on the Galaxy S4 smartphone.

In 2012, Microsoft incorporated native NFC functionality into their mobile OS with Windows Phone 8 and the Windows 8 operating system (OS). Microsoft offers the "wallet hub" in Windows Phone 8 for NFC payment and can integrate multiple NFC payment services within a single application.

On September 9, 2014, Apple announced support for NFC-powered transactions as part of Apple Pay. The first NFC-supported device was the iPhone 6/6 Plus, released on September 19, 2014.

With the release of iOS 11, Apple devices permit third-party developers to read data from NFC tags. Starting in September 2019 with iOS 13, Apple allows NFC tags to be read out and labeled using an NFC app.

NFC-equipped cellphones can be paired with NFC Tags or stickers that can be programmed by NFC apps. These apps can alter phone settings, send texts, launch apps, or execute commands. They do not depend on a specific company or manufacturer and can be used instantly with an NFC-equipped smartphone and an NFC tag.

2. Game Consoles

Nintendo Wii U was the first gaming system to incorporate NFC technology out of the box through the GamePad. Later, the Nintendo 3DS series also includes NFC Tech; NFC is built into the new Nintendo 3DS/XL and in a separately sold reader that uses infrared to communicate with older 3DS family consoles. Additionally, the Nintendo Amiibo range of accessories utilizes NFC technology to unlock features.

3. Soccer Ball

The Adidas Telstar 18 soccer ball contains an NFC chip that enables players to interact with the ball using a mobile phone.

Note: Apple Watch and Apple TV also support NFC.

What Is NFC Tag Reader iPhone?

iOS apps running on supported devices can use NFC scanning to read data from electronic tags attached to real-world objects.

In-App Tag Reading

An application can enable single- or multiple-object scanning when the app is active and display a scanning sheet whenever the user is expected to scan something.

Background Tag Reading

Background tag reading allows users to scan tags without opening the app and initiates scanning. It is faster. On devices that support background tag reading, the system automatically detects nearby compatible tags whenever the screen is illuminated. If a detected tag matches an app, the system will prompt you with a notification that you can tap to send the tag data to the app for processing.

However, background tag reading is disabled if an NFC scanning sheet is visible, Wallet or Apple Pay is in use, cameras are in use, the device is in airplane mode, or the device is locked after a restart.

How to Use NFC on iPhone?

To use NFC on iPhone, first, you need to verify whether your iPhone supports NFC. As mentioned earlier, starting from iPhone 6/6 Plus, Apple began supporting NFC for its Apple Pay feature. Therefore, if your iPhone is iPhone 6/6 Plus or newer, you can use NFC.

Next, you need to turn on the NFC in your iPhone settings to activate its function. Navigate to Settings > General > NFC and toggle on the NFC option.

You can further go to Settings > Control Center to add NFC Tag Reader to INCLUDED CONTROLS, which will place a shortcut for the NFC tag reader in the control menu.

To access the control menu, swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen. Then, you will see the NFC tag reader icon in the list.

Note: The instructions above are based on iPhone X (iOS 14.6).

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