NFC payments are set to get even faster and easier. NFC range is expected to increase by as much as 6 times

NFC, or Near Field Communication, technology is very popular for pairing all kinds of accessories, as well as for mobile payments. Its range is now set to increase significantly. By as much as six times, which will make it even easier to use.

NFC is getting a major update

You’ve probably wondered about the term “contactless payment”. This type of payment is especially popular in Slovakia and the Czech Republic, but on a compatible terminal it works only within just a few millimeters. Not to mention paying with a smartphone through a thicker protective case. So right now, NFC works only at very short distances—but that’s supposed to change with the arrival of new features.

NFC Forum, a group founded by companies Sony, NXP Semiconductors, and Nokia back in 2004 with the goal of improving NFC, has revealed a plan to enhance this technology. This plan should be rolled out gradually, over the years 2023 – 2028. It includes five key initiatives that were also backed by well-known companies like Apple, Google, and others. One of these initiatives is extending the range of this wireless communication.

Enhanced connection range—up to six times

The group says the goal is to extend the distance by four to six times. Today, it’s realistically possible to achieve connectivity under optimal conditions at a distance of about 5 mm. The new feature would therefore turn so-called “contactless payments” into truly contactless ones, which would also speed up and simplify the transactions themselves. What’s more, according to available information, it’s enough to fine-tune the NFC antenna.

Improving range isn’t the only update, though. NFC Forum wants to increase the power of wireless charging via NFC technology from 1 W to 3 W. That would enable wireless charging of accessories as well as new charging options, including the creation of new apps we don’t know about yet.

Another initiative is support for multiple communication channels. That would allow you to perform several different actions with just one click. In addition, the group said that a smartphone with NFC support will provide a Point-of-Sale feature and the ability to share how these products should be recycled.

However, these features are still only part of the proposal and will take several months to years before they’re implemented in your device.

How do you like the new features for NFC? If you have any more questions about range or the technology itself, feel free to write them to us below in the discussion under the article.

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