What do you mean by Near Field Communications (NFC)?
NFC (Near Field Communication) is a short-range communication technology that establishes a wireless communication between two devices in both directions.
NFD can used in many fields such as purchasing goods or ticketing information, according to Radio Frequency Identification RFID technology, The potential of services such as NFC are attracting business and consumer attention.
While data transfers are slower than Bluetooth, NFC has the advantages of increased usability and better security. Near Field Communications is a wireless technology that operates over short distances; devices can implement this technology to permit a user to, for example, store credits to be used to securely and instantly pay for public transport, eliminating inconvenient additional steps. In addition, NFC uses less power than Bluetooth and can work when one of the devices is off.
Due to its flexibility and applied technology, NFC can be integrated to create almost any kind of connected device. INSIDE Contactless, a NFC semi-conductor provider, is one of the companies at the heart of using NFC in reliable, fast, and secure transactions for access control, payment and transport and electronic identification. The smart card, cellphones, handhelds, checkouts, key fobs and PC peripherals are among INSIDE's innovative solutions. NFC is hoping to enter the mainstream of its users activities via cell phones.
With more than 4 billion mobile devices on the market, Near Field Communication has not even approached its full potential. The Mobile industry is working to overcome growth barriers- and advance from the current pilot stage to commercial vaibility. By the year 2014, one sixth of mobile phone users will have NFC-enabled units that will enable them to conduct small-scale transactions, according to the estimations of industry analysts at Juniper Research.
For us to enjoy NFC, there must be cooperation between many different partners from different parts of the mobile world. It is necessary for a Key partnership to include mobile operators, device manufacturers, banks, services providers and other trusted third parties.
NFC has partnerships with Banka Koper, Mastercard Europe and Mobitel in Slovenia. There subscribers can pay for things by a simple tap.
Companies, including Sagem Wireless, continue to lead the industry in creating new and innovative devices and useful applications using the NFC technology. Take for example, the new CosyPhone by Sagem Wireless uses NFC to provide a simple product to those over 50 that will conform to their specific needs. As an example, NFC is used by the phone to enable simple calling as well as to allow access to data services by permitting users to wave their Cosyphone past shortcut cards that are pre-configured and customized in order to call friends and family, or services like doctors and grocery shopping.
Customized Cards for a calender or diary is another option available to users. A simple wave of the instrument past the cards send pre-configured text messages, like greeting happy birthday to relatives.
Manufacturers alone can not drive NFC usage by themselves. NFC needs mobile network operators since technology is creating new connected services, therefore enabling new revenue streams to be accessed though the mobile network.
NFC services are more likely to grow with the support of mobile operators.
Equally important are banks and credit card companies who want to deliver the expected levels of security for simple but suitable payment transactions using NFC.
While NFC is still facing hurdles, 2010 will be a key year in deciding which ones fail and which ones thrive.
NFC is emerging as an active entity.
The alterations to mobile devices are evident. Rapid development of the Smartphone has left the consumers craving further advancements for their phones. By charging for mobile usage of new devices and services, mobile operators and lifestyle brands perceive the revenue potential of creating such devices that are behind the m-commerce driving force. They want to get away from smartphones and generic app stores, and have a more personal experience with their connected devices.
NFC is a technological revolution that makes brands and operators to have a connection with their target communities through these new services.
Near Field Communications enabled mobile devices have the potential to transform the way we pay for goods and services and are an integral part of our connected lifestyles.
Ticketing: At first, some popular NFC applications in mobile devices focused on contactless tickets worldwide. In practice, it is incredibly convenient to pay train or bus fare from your mobile device.
Trials in some European nations have found that NFC devices improve the "smart" card experience. Checking in and checking out at the start and end of a journey is easily achieved using the NFC system. It also allows access to additional options such as checking and refiling account balances and receiving the latest travel information.
Payment methods: There are other options for NFC enabled cell users to pay their monthly bill. The NFC device can handle multiple credit and debit cards, giving the user access to a wider range of payment options. Obviously, the concept associated with a "electronic wallet" must require merchants including stores, dining establishments as well as pubs, to support Near Field Communications during the implementation regarding innovative transaction equipment, that will be implemented gradually.
Global events like the 2012 London Olympics can kick-start this process, by having plans like smart tickets for the Olympic Games, which can create a contactless payment and help to make the Olympic Village cashless.
Juniper Research say that while the Asian market is already established in making contactless payments, by 2014 these services will take off in North America and Europe as well, totaling $110 million. Trials have already been successful across the globe, from France to Australia.
We want to share our mobile devices which are packed with photos, videos, games and other content. The NFC enables devices to share music, photos and even video, just by being in the proximity of other enabled devices. The following has the ability to be conducted through most dimensions of society-from the younger generation comparing various media to corporation type data processing which involves business cards and spreadsheet applications.
NFC devices will also be used to transmit ads to users, which opens up a whole new revenue stream. When customers want to know more about advertisements they see, they can wave their phone at the ads and the details will be downloaded to the phone. Users can also easily forward the information to others. A marketer may offer incentives to users in exchange for their information or interest in products and services.
One instance of this interactivity is an exciting collaboration with Centre Pompidou, an art museum in Paris. Smart Muse uses NFC technology which allows viewers to wave NFC-enabled phones near compatible exhibits. This brings viewers more information about the exhibit and artist. It also provides videos and interviews for the viewer to watch and listen.
Social networking sites such as Facebook will allow users to share information and opinions about the exhibit. The system will be launched to coincide with the new Teen Gallery's which will make an entry later this year.
The first deployment of NFC technology will be in the Southern French city of Nice. The Smart Muse project, funded by a grant from France's Ministry of Economy, provides tags and contextualized-location and time-based-content management systems.
There are no limits in site when it comes to NFC technology. With the continuing development of infrastructure, more apps will be created as technology improves. As the number of NFC users increases, mare applications will arise.
NFC applications summary
While Near Field Communications gives support and enables multiple applications on handsets, the first phase of its adoption is already seeing NFC being used for payment and ticketing in the transport sector Tests have been done all over the world that show that many successful services are being developed that will take advantage of the connectivity provided. With more and more NFC compatible devices being launched by device manufacturers, mobile operators and service providers need to work closely to put in place the infrastructure that will facilitate and drive rollout of the technology. Get more information about the (NFC) Near Field Communication