NFC, or Near Field Communication, is a technology that allows for wireless communication between devices. This technology can be used for a variety of purposes, such as making payments with Apple Pay or automating various processes.
This technology can also be used with HF/NFC RFID inlays, which are small chips that can store and transmit information. By placing an NFC tag near your iPhone, you can trigger actions such as turning on a smart light or opening a specific website.
This article will show you how to use NFC on iPhone. You will need an iPhone 7 or a later model, as earlier models do not have NFC capabilities.
Check NFC Capability on Your iPhone
Unlike Android phones, you do not need to toggle on NFC in your iPhone’s settings. The functionality is automated and will work if your iPhone model is NFC-enabled.
To check if your iPhone has NFC capability, go to the control center and look for the NFC icon. If it is present, your iPhone can use NFC.
You can also test it by opening the HotSpot app, going to the parking tab, and selecting Gate Tab. If your phone shows “Ready to Scan” under the NFC icon, your phone is NFC-enabled. If it shows an error message, your phone does not have NFC capabilities.
Using NFC with Apple Pay
One of the most popular uses for NFC is making payments through Apple Pay. When setting up your iPhone, you will be prompted to add a debit or credit card to use with Apple Pay.
To make a payment using Apple Pay and NFC, hold your iPhone near the NFC reader at a participating store until you feel a vibration and see “Done” on the screen. You may also be asked to confirm your payment with FaceID, Touch ID, or your passcode.
This is an added security layer to ensure that only you can use Apple Pay with your iPhone. You will never have to worry about data breaches when using Apple Pay.
Using NFC Tags
You can use NFC tags for a variety of purposes, such as automating your activities or making it easier to access specific websites.
To use NFC tags, you will first need to buy them and write information onto them using an app like Trigger or NFC Tools. You can store information such as Wi-Fi passwords, URLs, or even text messages.
Then, hold your iPhone near the NFC tag to trigger the stored action. This can make tasks like signing onto Wi-Fi or opening a website much easier and more efficient. To write an NFC tag, you will follow these steps:
- Open an NFC Writing App. You can download one from the App Store, such as Trigger or NFC Tools. They are usually free, guaranteeing an affordable writing option.
- Configure It. Once the app is open, select the type of action you want to program into the NFC tag. This could be a Wi-Fi password, URL, or text message. Some apps will have pre-set options, while others will require manual input.
- Write to the Tag. Place your NFC tag near the back of your iPhone and select “Write” in the app. Your iPhone will then write the programmed action onto the NFC tag.
- Test It Out. Once you have written information onto the tag, hold your iPhone near it to test if it is working properly. If not, you may need to reconfigure or rewrite the tag.
Additionally, you can create a shortcut on your iPhone. To do this, open the Shortcuts app and select the Automation Tab. Select “Create Personal Automation” and then select “NFC.”
You will then add action, such as turning on a smart light or opening a specific website. If you need more actions, tap on the + icon and add them. Finally, hold your iPhone near your NFC tag to trigger the shortcut.
Whenever you tap your iPhone on the NFC tag, it will automatically perform the configured actions. This can streamline your daily routine and make life much more convenient.
Using NFC to Automate Processes
Automation is a growing trend in technology, and NFC tags can play a big role in automating processes. Here are a few examples of using NFC on iPhone to automate tasks:
- Home Automation. This technology can be used to turn on lights or adjust the thermostat when you arrive home, simply by tapping your iPhone on an NFC tag near the door. All you need is a home automation system like Apple HomeKit and NFC tags programmed with the desired actions.
- Smartphone Settings. Placing an NFC tag on your bedside table can trigger Do Not Disturb mode, while one in your car can enable Bluetooth and turn on your favorite music playlist.
- Business Cards. Instead of exchanging physical business cards, you can use NFC tags with your contact information and have others tap their phones on it to add you to their contacts.
- Vehicle Automation. NFC tags in your car can start the engine, adjust seats and mirrors, and turn on the air conditioning to your desired settings. This way, you will never have to manually adjust these settings again.
- Office Automation. NFC tags can be used to open specific files or turn on your computer at work, streamlining your daily tasks and increasing productivity. For example, tapping your phone on an NFC tag as you arrive at your desk can automatically open your email and to-do list for the day.
These are only a few examples of using NFC tags to automate processes, but the possibilities are endless with this technology. Start using NFC tags on your iPhone to streamline and simplify your daily routine.
Is Using NFC for iPhone Safe?
NFC technology is largely considered safe for both individuals and businesses. It requires proximity to function, making it difficult for hackers to access the information without physical access to the NFC tag or device.
Additionally, most NFC actions do not require sensitive information like credit card numbers or passwords. The technology is also heavily encrypted, adding another layer of security.
Overall, NFC technology is a secure and convenient option for automating processes on your iPhone. Start incorporating it to reap the benefits of convenience, efficiency, and improved productivity.
