Information about NFC Tags

What are NFC Tags?

NFC tags, or Near field Communication tags are small electronic tags that can be placed almost anywhere and provide a contactless was to send and receive data between the tag and your device (usually a mobile device). By simply tapping/touching your smartphone against an NFC tag you can initiate this instant data transfer.

Are NFC Tags being used today?

YES, NFC tags are being used right now all over the world, especially Japan. NFC technology is beginning to gain traction in Europe and the United States and is growing very very quickly.

Can a smartphone read NFC Tags?

At the moment it is unlikely the smartphone you have possesses this technology. However, almost every new smart phone from this point on will include NFC tag reading capabilities. Both the Apple iphone 5 and Google smartphones will be NFC ready as both companies have a vested interest in the future of this technology. Most notably Google with the new Google Wallet.

What is Google Wallet?

Google wallet is one of the most talked about uses for NFC technology. Google wallet is a smartphone app that stores virtual versions of your credit cards within the phone securely. Incorporating this app with an NFC ready phone will allow you to make a purchase by tapping your smartphone against the reader during checkout. Just like that you've made a quick and easy payment, and your on your way. This is the future of commerce. If your a business owner, do not be left behind.

What else can be done with NFC tagging/technology?

Imagine seeing an ad with a coupon from your favorite restaurant, you wave your smartphone in front of the ad and you instantly have a virtual copy that is ready for use. After dinner you see a movie poster that looks intriguing, so you touch your NFC enable smartphone to the poster and immediately find theaters, show times, and trailers. And of course you can pay for your popcorn, soda, and tickets with a tap of your phone.

I'm a business owner, can NFC tags be used for marketing?

Absolutely, just read above for some examples. new and creative ways to market businesses are being thought of all the time. As we speak, in South Korea people are ordering groceries via a poster as they wait for their train. If you don.t take advantage of this technology someone else will, if they aren't already. You can put them on business cards, flyers, snail mail, a vehicle, anywhere! People will love the interactivity.