Skip to main content

Apple iPhone 5 with NFC rumors continue

iphone_5_nfc_paymentDespite previous reports to the contrary, Apple’s next-generation iPhone will have near field communication (NFC) mobile-payment technology — which basically turns a cell phone into a credit card — built-in, according to Forbes. Of course, the rumor comes via a second-hand source, who remains unnamed — and we all know how that kind of news can go, especially when Apple’s involved.

Forbes technology reporter Elizabeth Woyke cites “an entrepreneur who is working on a top-secret NFC product,” who “believes the iPhone 5 will have NFC” based on “reliable” information from “a friend who works at Apple.”

In addition, Woyke’s source says that manufacturers of NFC readers — the machines that process the payments made using NFC-enabled cell phones — “also expect the iPhone 5 to have NFC,” and are “gearing up for the additional NFC traffic the iPhone 5 will bring, likely this summer.”

This information contradicts a March 14 report from The Independent, which indicated that Apple had met with various wireless providers in the UK, and told them that the iPhone 5 will not include NFC technology because of “the lack of a clear standard across the industry,” according to an anonymous source.

The news surprised industry watchers, as three carriers in the US — T-Mobile, Verizon and AT&T — have all signed on to the Isis NFC standard months ago, which more or less negates the alleged reasoning behind Apple’s abandonment of NFC.

Google — Apple’s fiercest competitor — has already included NFC technology in its Android operating system, and is available on a number of devices. In addition, Google reportedly plans to launch its own limited NFC system, along with partner VeriFone Systems, in New York and San Francisco.

Research In Motion has said that it plans to release NFC-enabled BlackBerry devices as soon as possible.

As always, Apple’s NFC plans are still in the stage of speculation. But with talk of it percolating up from those in the industry, it’s at least safe to assume that Cupertino is at least considering bringing NFC to the iPhone 5. Whether or not it will show up in the final project (expected for a June reveal) is another thing entirely.

Editors' Recommendations

Andrew Couts
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Features Editor for Digital Trends, Andrew Couts covers a wide swath of consumer technology topics, with particular focus on…
Nomad sale: Up to 85% off cases for iPhone, AirPods, Apple Watch
Nomad leather case for iPhone.

If you just got yourself a new device from iPhone deals or AirPods deals, your next purchase should be on protection for your smartphone or wireless earbuds. Nomad's cases will not only prevent physical damage, but they will also provide a unique sense of style so that your iPhone or AirPods will stand out anywhere you go. There's an ongoing Nomad Overstock sale with discounts of up to 85% covering cases for the iPhone 14, AirPods 3, and more -- check out everything that's available, and hopefully there's something that will be compatible with your current device.

What to buy in Nomad's Overstock sale
Nomad's Overstock sale includes cases for the iPhone 14 series, iPhone 13 series, iPhone 12 series, and iPhone XS series. For the largest discounts, the Modern Leather Case - Horween for the iPhone 14 Plus is 85% off,

Read more
Best refurbished iPhone deals: Get an iPhone 14 for $507
An iPhone 13 in white color option.

Apple started the whole idea of a smartphone, so it's probably no surprise that it makes some of the best on the market. Of course, they are known for being quite expensive, especially if you want to grab the best iPhones, which will easily run you close to or over $1,000. Luckily, there are some great iPhone deals you can take advantage of, whether unlocked or through a carrier. There are also some other alternatives in the form of refurbished phones. Now, a lot of folks do sometimes shy away from refurbished gear, but it's important to note that many, if not all, refurbished phones come with a guarantee and extended return windows, so you shouldn't worry about getting something defunct. Also, refurbished phones tend to be substantially cheaper than new ones; plus, they do cut down a lot on e-waste, so you are helping the environment.

Either way, we've gone out and found some of the best refurbished iPhone deals out there to save you a little bit extra. We've found a pretty wide range too, so be sure to checkout all the deals available below.
iPhone XR -- from $166
iPhone XR Julian Chokkattu/Digital Trends / Digital Trends

Read more
The iPhone 16’s huge redesign has leaked. Here’s what’s new
iPhone 15 Pro Max lying on the ground surrounded by leaves.

Apple fans might be in for a lukewarm surprise when Apple releases its next wave of iPhones this fall season. Over the past few weeks, numerous outlets — including 91 Mobiles and MacRumors – and independent insiders have shared alleged CAD-based renders of the entire iPhone 16 portfolio.

In 2024, it seems Apple will shower more love on the entry-point models, bestowing them with a slight design refinement on the rear shell. Leaks suggest the camera island on the iPhone 16—and likely its Plus variant as well—will get a pill-shaped makeover. Other changes are reported for the 16 Pro and Pro Max models. There's a lot to cover, so let's dig in.
The iPhone 16's brand-new design
On the current-generation iPhone 15 duo, we get diagonally arranged camera lenses positioned atop a square-ish glass bump. In the upcoming versions, Apple is reportedly replacing it with a vertical pill-like camera island, mirroring the look we first saw on the iPhone X.

Read more