New technologies have emerged to unlock the full potential of the Internet of Things (IoT). Bringing connectivity in a convenient and cost-effective way, NFC (Near Field Communication) technology helps maximize the overall experience with smart things.
What is NFC technology?
The NFC technology uses a radio link operating at 13.56 MHz to establish a wireless connection between a reader and a tag. To ensure security, the communication range is typically limited to a few centimeters.
In most cases, NFC tags are tiny, battery-free chips, placed either inside or on a physical object. NFC tags store information. When a reader is brought close to a tag, it can read the information stored within the chip, and perform a variety of tasks.
Located in the main unit, the reader powers the tag through a magnetic field (13.56 MHz). The NFC reader, like NFC controllers in smartphones, can also behave as a tag to support multiple use cases:
- This technology is now available to everyone:
- More than 70% of smartphones now support NFC
- Fastest-growing CAGR, with 8%, in mobile wireless technology usage
Available in millions of devices, the ecosystem is already embedded natively which simplifies any NFC project. In addition, the NFC technology is standardized by the NFC Forum, an industry consortium which promotes new applications and compliance.
Thanks to its Tap&Go approach requiring a simple tap from an NFC-enabled device, NFC technology lets users access a wide range of use cases such as parameter settings, anti-counterfeiting, secure payment, access control, consumer engagement, accessory recognition, and many more.
To learn more about NFC technology, visit our educational page.
NFC technology at ST
As one of the pioneers of the RFID and NFC technology, ST offers a comprehensive range of HF RFID/NFC products, covering all the requirements for NFC-based applications. Designers can leverage ST’s extensive ecosystem to speed up their development process.
Our portfolio includes NFC/RFID tags, Dynamic NFC tags, NFC readers & NFC controllers, as well as a range of embedded secure elements for secure NFC applications.
computers and peripherals
Product types
ST25 NFC Tags & Readers
ST25 NFC tags
NFC tags are batteryless components, suitable for advanced digital experience targeting consumer applications.
ST25 dynamic NFC tags
Dynamic NFC tags with wired connectivity (I²C or PWM), suitable for consumer or industrial applications.
ST25 NFC Readers
NFC readers cover various RF power requirements, their unique features make them suitable for many applications.
Benefits
- STMicroelectronics is member of several consortiums to ensure product interoperability
- 20+ years of expertise and innovation, a vast patent portfolio with advanced features
- A wide portfolio including tags, readers and controllers with eSE/eSIM
- A strong ecosystem to support all types of applications.
- NFC products designed for multi-market segments: industrial, automotive, consumer, mobile, etc.
- Integration with major Mobile platform players & service providers
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