Near Field Communications aka NFC: The ultimate guide

In strictly technical language, NFC or Near Field Communications is a short-range, low-power communications protocol between two different devices that facilitates interactions through electromagnetic radio fields. The technology is quite similar to Bluetooth, the only difference being that interaction can also take place through physical touching of devices.

NFC, if becomes a global phenomenon will facilitate in sharing, pairing and transaction. Yes, you read it right - transactions. As an NFC-enabled smartphone user, you will only have to touch your phone to payment terminal and transaction will be complete. Much like Debit/Credit card swapping these days. Not just for payment, but you will be able to use your smartphone as Metro Card, Bus pass, library card and even as a hotel keycard.

Speaking of functionality, NFC will operate much like QR codes, however the user will not have to open a dedicated app or take a picture to take the advantage. Interestingly, the question that pops up now is that if it is such an advantageous technology, why we are hearing about it only now.

NFC has been existing since 2005 however, apart from Nokia, no other smartphone manufacturer dared to tread into this alien territory. Nokia, first with Nokia 3220 with an NFC-modified back cover and then in 2007 with Nokia 6131 NFC propagated this technology.

Interestingly, with trend of smartphones and tablets fast catching up pace, NFC will definitely become a day-to-day reality. However, on startup basis, this technology needs to be extensively tested.

Plus, it may require significant changes in infrastructure to support NFC technology. However, having said that, Nokia surely deserves the credit of introducing such a fantastic technology to world.

Hopefully, it will soon roll out series of NFC-enabled handsets in global market. Read more about Nokia NFC.