The NFC Forum, a community organization consisting of hundreds of orgs, has just announced NFC Release 15, a significant update that promises to change the way we interact with NFC (Near Field Communication)-enabled devices.
This new release boosts the range of NFC contactless connections by up to 4x, making it quicker, more reliable, and easier to use for a wide range of applications, from wireless charging to digital keys.
The operating range of NFC connections jumps from 0.5 cm to 2 cm, meaning you don’t have to be as close or precise when aligning devices. This will make things like paying with your phone, syncing wearables, or unlocking smart home devices faster and smoother.
The extra range might not seem large, but it has a huge impact on how we interact with the technology on a day-to-day basis.
Devices will connect more quickly and with less hassle, and you won’t have to worry about perfect alignment or waiting for that connection to establish—just bring the devices closer and they’ll be ready to go. It also means that the NFC experience will feel more seamless. Whether you’re tapping your phone to pay, unlocking a door, or charging your device wirelessly, everything will just work that much better.
Some other technologies include:
- Wearables: Syncing your smartwatch or fitness tracker with your phone will be much easier, as the devices won’t need to be perfectly aligned. Just a quick tap, and you’re good to go.
- Automotive & Transit: NFC is already used in car entry and transit payments, but with the extended range, the process will be quicker and more reliable, reducing the chances of frustrating delays when tapping in or out.
- Smart Homes: Whether it’s unlocking doors or controlling your appliances, NFC’s improved range will make your smart home experience that much more intuitive. No need to line up devices perfectly—it just works.
NFC Release 15 also plays a role in sustainability, supporting the NFC Digital Product Passport Standard which helps products store and share data about their lifecycle, pushing the tech industry further into the circular economy. It also makes it easier for companies and consumers to make more environmentally conscious decisions.
NFC Forum members can dive into the Technical Specifications now, while the general public will be able to begin certifying devices for compliance in Fall 2025.
Learn more about the new release, as well as an upcoming webinar next month going into detail on specs and how it is set to revolutionanize contactless tech across industries, on the official website post here.
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