Tech & Gadget

Complete Guide on How to Use NFC

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Mountain

Complete Guide on How to Use NFC

How to use NFC can be a practical solution to make your various daily activities easier, such as top up e-money, opening access cards, to duplicating RFID.

Although this technology is already available in many smartphones, not everyone knows how to use it optimally. This article will discuss a complete guide for users Android and iOS, including other interesting information that is rarely revealed elsewhere.

So, if you're curious about how NFC can make your life easier, check out the following review!

Also read:

What is NFC

NFC for Android. Source: Aksaraintimes.

NFC (Near Field Communication) is a technology that allows your device to communicate with other devices within close proximity, usually just a few centimeters. NFC is often used for cashless transactions, access control, or data transfer.

For those of you who are new to NFC, this article will guide you on how to use it on Android and iOS devices, including everyday applications such as e-money top-ups, access cards, and even RFID duplication.

 

How to Activate NFC on a Cellphone

Using NFC. Source: Bhinneka.

Before you start enjoying all the convenience, you need to know how to enable NFC on your device. Let's follow this guide!

Androids

Open Settings

  • Go to the Settings menu on your Android device.
  • Look for the Connections or Connected Devices option, depending on your phone's interface.

Enable NFC

  • After finding the NFC option, slide the button until it is in the On position.
  • If your device has additional features such as Android Beam, make sure it is also enabled to support data transfer.
  • Typically, the NFC sensor is located in the middle or top of the back of the phone. To make sure, try attaching an e-money card or other NFC device.

To be able to read or write data with NFC, install an application such as LinkAja, GoPay, or a similar application that suits your needs.

iOS

NFC is available on iPhone 7 and above. If you are using an older iPhone model, this feature is not available.

Unlike Android, NFC on iOS is automatically enabled. You just need to bring your iPhone close to the NFC device or card you want to use.

Some apps like Apple Wallet are used for payments or reading card data. If you want additional features, you can download third-party apps that support NFC.

Some NFC cards or tags may require specific apps to function optimally. Find out the best apps that support your needs, such as e-money top-ups or access cards.

Top-Up and Check E-Money Balance

Top up e-Money on NFC. Source Gadget Box YouTube channel.

One of the advantages of using this feature is to top up e-money as a means of payment in several places that require it.

On Android

  • Download Supporting Applications: Applications such as LinkAja, GoPay, or BRImo usually supports reading e-money cards.
  • Attach Card: Place the card on the back of the phone, around the NFC sensor area.
  • Top-Up or Check Balance: Follow the application instructions to top-up your balance.

On iOS

Use a Special App: Try apps like Shopee or Tokopedia that support the e-money top-up feature via NFC.

Tap the Card: Just like on Android, place the card near the NFC sensor on the iPhone.

Access Cards and Electronic Doors

NFC usage. Source: Orange Pos.

You can also use NFC to replace the function of an access card, such as opening electronic doors in an office or apartment.

  • Scan Genuine Access Card: Use a supporting application such as MTools (Android) to read data from the RFID card.
  • Copy to NFC Devices: Some phones support storing access card data directly to the device. Alternatively, use NFC stickers or tags to store the data.
  • Security Attention: Do not use this feature for illegal activities or stealing other people's card data.

RFID Duplication with NFC

NFC and RFID. Source: Blackreview.

One feature that is rarely discussed is the ability of NFC to duplicate RFID. For example, you have an RFID card for parking or building access, which can be cloned to a spare NFC tag.

  • Download Apps Like TagWriter: This app helps to read and write data to NFC tags.
  • Insert RFID Card: Let the app read the card data.
  • Transfer to New NFC Tag: Select the Write option and paste the blank NFC tag for the duplication process.

Make sure you have permission to duplicate the RFID card, as this relates to the legality of use.

Other Lesser Known Functions of NFC

NFC. Source: Nfc-connetct.

In addition to topping up e-money or access cards, NFC has various interesting functions that you may not know about. Here are some of them:

Automation with NFC Tags

NFC tags can be used to automate activities on your smartphone. For example, stick an NFC tag on your desk to automatically activate Do Not Disturb mode and open productivity apps.

Open Apps or Links Quickly

NFC can store URLs or links to specific apps. For example, you can program an NFC tag to open a link to your favorite website or social media profile just by holding your phone close.

For example, attach a tag to the guest table so that visitors are directed directly to WiFi or a digital guest form.

Electronic Ticket Verification

Some digital ticketing services use NFC to verify access, such as concert tickets or public transportation. With NFC, you simply hold your phone or card close to the scanner.

How to use NFC is no longer difficult once you understand the steps. From e-money top-ups to duplicating RFID cards, this technology offers convenience that you can use every day.

Also read: 

Don't forget, for your game and digital product top-up needs, visit VCGamers Marketplace as your best choice!

Mountain