Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. Mobile
  3. News

NFC update expands on mobile sharing technology

By
nfc
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Announced by the NFC Forum this week, near field communication technology got an upgrade in the form of device to device communication. Before this upgrade, the existing form of NFC utilizes an active device and a passive device, ideal for transactions like checking out in line at the grocery store. For instance, credit card information is stored on a smartphone and offered up to a store’s checkout terminal when asked. The upgrade to the technology (Simple NDEF Exchange Protocol) allows devices to communicate back and forth actively. This would allow a wider range of actions to be built into applications beyond simply utilizing the technology when purchasing items.

mobile-phone-with-credit-card3For instance, a NFC-equipped high definition television or computer monitor could communicate with a NFC-equipped smartphone and allow the user to watch a recently recorded video on the larger screen. This technology can also be applied to other applications such as games. A user may have to communicate with another NFC-equipped phone to unlock the next level in Angry Birds. Business contacts could use NFC-equipped smartphones to trade contact info without having to bump the phones together. This technology would also create a happy communication medium between different types of smartphones. For example, Android and Apple phones could potentially communicate through NFC.

Recommended Videos

While this type of technology is already in place with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connections, this upgrade simply offers another reason for smartphone manufacturers to include NFC technology in new versions. Motorola, HTC, Samsung, LG, RIM and Sony Ericsson have already agreed to install NFC-capable microSD cards in new smartphones starting next year. Mobile carriers Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile are also on board with NFC as well as payment providers Visa, American Express, MasterCard and Discover. However, mobile payment company Square has already got a jump on the market destined for NFC technology and company officials don’t believe that retailers are interested in implementing this new technology in stores.

Topics
Mike Flacy
Mike Flacy
Contributing Editor
By day, I'm the content and social media manager for High-Def Digest, Steve's Digicams and The CheckOut on Ben's Bargains…
The Google Pixel 8a’s 6 biggest upgrades over the Pixel 7a
Pixel 7a back.

The Google Pixel 8a has just launched, and it comes with many upgrades that Pixel fans have been hoping for. These include some attractive new design flourishes, beefed-up hardware, a longer-lasting battery, and a higher-end display. You also get all the software features that make the Pixel series so appealing, including seven years of OS and security updates and Gemini Nano for more AI features.

But how does all of this compare to the already great Pixel 7a? Here’s a breakdown of the Google Pixel 8a’s six biggest upgrades over the Pixel 7a. For a closer look at all of the differences between the two phones, see our Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 7a comparison.
The Tensor G3 chip

Read more
How to make AirPods and AirPods Pro louder and adjust volume settings
On-screen volume adjustment for AirPods using Spotify.

AirPods have become the top choice for wireless earbuds among most people because of their unmatched sound quality and innovative features such as Spatial Audio, which provides an immersive audio experience. And, of course, Apple’s marketing has also played a significant role in promoting their popularity.

If you’re looking for ways to adjust the volume on your AirPods or AirPods Pro, there are several options available. You can use your favorite apps that support AirPods, ask Siri to do it, or use the buttons and features on your devices and the AirPods themselves. Any of the options will help to ensure you get the best out of your AirPods.

Read more
iPad Pro (2024) vs. iPad Air (2024): the difference is clear
Comparing the iPad Pro (2024) and iPad Air (2024)

The iPad Pro (left) and iPad Air Bryan M. Wolfe / Digital Trends

During its "Let Loose" event on May 7, Apple added four new iPad models to its tablet lineup. The latest models include an 11-inch and all-new 13-inch iPad Air and next-generation 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Pro models. Despite sharing similar dimensions, there's a significant price gap between the least expensive iPad Air and iPad Pro tablets, indicating notable differences between the two lineups.

Read more