What is NFC Technology - Explanation and Advantages

The digital age has ushered in so many different innovations when it comes to technology. One of them is NFC technology. You might have already seen it in action somewhere like a checkout line of a store where someone taps their smartphone on a card terminal. Yep, that’s how it happens.

So what is NFC technology exactly? We’ll dive into what it is along with the advantages you can get out of it when you put it to good use - both for personal and business purposes. Let’s waste no more time and jump right into the guide.

NFC technology explained

NFC stands for “Near Field Communication”. It’s short-range wireless communication technology that will allow you to exchange data between devices when they are in close proximity to each other. NFC operates on radio frequency identification or RFID - which allows for two devices with NFC-enabled technology to establish a connection.

Close proximity is required to ensure that the communication between the two devices is secure. Meanwhile, it will limit any risks of unauthorized access. So the connection of the two devices will be safe from any interference or unauthorized users who may be up to no good.

NFC technology offers two modes of communication: active and passive. If in active mode, the two devices in contact with one another will have their own radio frequency fields. Meanwhile, passive mode will allow one device to generate the field while the other responds. NFC will operate at a frequency of 13.56 MHz and can support data rate transfers with 106 kbs to 424 kbs. 

Advantages of NFC Technology

Now that you have a good idea of how NFC technology works, it’s important to know the advantages. What will it do for you? Let’s take a look at the following:

Contactless payments

We touched on this example in the beginning of this guide. If you are at a store that takes credit or debit, the terminal could have NFC technology where you can scan the phone. How it works is that you connect the bank card that you use to your device (i.e - Apple Pay on iPhone).

This way, you save time that would otherwise be wasted on looking for your physical bank card in your wallet. At the same time, contactless payment reduces the need and use for physical cash. It also reduces the needs of swiping or using the chip method.

Exchanging contact information

At Oamii Cards, we hold this advantage to a high standard. That’s because we offer digital business cards to those who want to network and exchange contact information with their new connections. We utilize NFC technology to ensure a seamless transfer of contact information based on what’s on your digital business card.

You can send the business card over to your new connection, which can then be stored on the device. It can be via the storage space or even their digital wallet. What makes it even more interesting is that they don’t have to keep physical copies of a business card in their pocket or throw it out.

Because of its digital attributes, you can be able to send copies to one person, five, even ten. The good news is you don’t have to carry around hundreds of business cards. Those days are long gone. You have one digital business card and unlimited chances to pass out copies thanks to NFC technology.

Smart access control

We live in an age where things are getting smarter. This includes the entry locks to gain access into buildings, apartment complexes, or restricted areas (if you have the programmed credentials). NFC technology will allow you to unlock a door using your smartphone. The need for physical keys or keycards will no longer exist.

This means you won’t have to worry about forgetting your keys or misplacing them. Since you have your phone on hand, you’ll have the key access right there with you. If that isn’t an impressive example that NFC technology is a blessing, we’re not sure what is.

Public transportation usage

Remember when you needed a ticket or a token to board a bus or metro train? With the evolution and adoption of NFC technology, it can be done all on your smartphone. You can use an app designed by public transportation networks where you can prepay a balance that you can use on a digital card - allowing you an easy way to pay for your fare.

Physical passes and paper tickets will no longer be needed. Not only will it make things easier, but it also makes things environmentally friendly. Taking a bus or metro train has never been easier (including walking through the turnstile with your digital pass).

Smart home technology

Yes, even homeowners that utilize smart home technology. This includes keyless entry, engaging smart locks, adjusting the thermostats, switching on the lights, and so much more. There’s a whole lot you can do to control your home with NFC technology - whether you are physically home or not.

Nonetheless, NFC technology will enhance the user experience like no other when it comes to controlling every aspect of your smart home. You can watch through your security camera and notice some suspicious looking characters that are near your home. If you feel concerned about a possible break in, you can just turn on the lights and make it look like you are home.

Let Oamii Cards help with your digital business card

If you are looking for a way to take advantage of NFC technology, Oamii Cards has something for you. We offer digital business cards that you can design to fit your own needs and preferences. Each one uses NFC technology so you can be able to make seamless connections with your new contacts.

You’ll be able to transfer your digital business card to someone who should keep in touch with you. Even better, they can still reach out to you even if you make contact info changes in real time. Contact us today about how Oamii Cards can help set up your digital business card.