NFC Tags in a nutshell

NFC tags can contain simple data or elaborate instructions that allow them to perform functions such as paying for goods, unlocking doors, launching phone calls or exchanging data between users.

The majority of tags for consumer applications are read-only; however, NFC tags can also be read, re-writeable, and custom-encoded. The tags can securely store personal data such as debit and credit card information, loyalty program data, PINs and networking contacts, among other information.

The concept is similar to Bluetooth technology but consumes far less power and doesn’t require pairing; the downside is that the data rate is slower. Common amongst Japanese phone near field communication chips are installed in about every one, with some companies such as NTT Docomo permanently integrating the technology into their products and doing away with SIM cards.

An NFC Tag is a regular ISO 14443 card (either a memory card or a microprocessor-based smartcard), holding a specific content. Depending on this content, the “reader” will perform automatically a predefined action. Typical actions are :

open a URL (Internet address),

dial a number or send an SMS (if the reader is a mobile phone),

launch software

NFC Tags in a nutshell

An NFC Tag is a regular ISO 14443 card (either a memory card or a microprocessor-based smartcard), holding a specific content. Depending on this content, the “reader” will perform automatically a predefined action. Typical actions are :

open a URL (Internet address),

dial a number or send an SMS (if the reader is a mobile phone),

launch a software,

etc…

NFC tags are for instance embedded in Smart Posters, a new media for advertisement. Users seing the poster and touching its NFC tag with their NFC-enabled mobile phone or smartphone they may receive easily coupons or detailed information, or be prompted to buy online the advertised goods.

NFC tags are for instance embedded in Smart Posters, a new media for advertisement. Users seing the poster and touching its NFC tag with their NFC-enabled mobile phone or smartphone they may receive easily coupons or detailed information, or be prompted to buy online the advertised goods.