Near Field Communication

Near Field Communication (NFC) technology will soon become a major part of modern society. It refers to the use of a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip placed in, for example, mobile ‘phones and credit cards. It allows for wireless ‘communication’ between two devices that are very close, ‘near field’ to each other (usually within millimetres).

IFPL’s first work on Near Field Communication was five years ago. The company has been developing further work in this field. Mobile phone technology has moved into producing phones with RFIDs. This opens up a whole range of facilities from purchasing to downloading information. Currently contactless technology allows people to make low value transactions without a PIN. Technology is being developed to allow (with the use of security) people to make larger purchases and download purchases such as music.

Airlines could increase their revenue streams through on board sales. For low cost carriers this could signal the start of pay as you go IFE, drinks and so on during a flight. NFC is the way many passengers are likely to pay for items, and airlines would be able to build in the system without having to have a card swipe.

For more information, download our Information Sheet.