NFC Standard Gets First Update in 14 Years

For the first time in 14 years, the NFC standard—the technology behind our everyday contactless payments and other interactions—has received a significant update. The NFC Forum introduced NFC Release 15, which substantially extends the technology's range from the previous 0.5 cm to 2 cm. While this might seem like a small change, its potential to transform how we interact with the digital world is enormous.

More Freedom in Payments and Beyond

The main innovation in NFC Release 15 is its increased reading distance. You'll no longer need to press your cards, phones, or stickers tightly against terminals for payments or other transactions. Simply bringing the device closer will be enough, significantly boosting convenience. This improvement comes from a new, more efficient data exchange protocol that allows NFC tags to work over a greater distance while maintaining the same low power consumption.

Broad Applications Ahead

This enhanced version of NFC won't just impact contactless payments. NFC technology is already widely used in areas like smart locks with key cards, various smart home devices, and even automobiles. The extended range will make these applications even more intuitive and convenient, opening the door for new innovations.

Compatibility and Availability

A crucial aspect of NFC Release 15 is its backward compatibility, meaning it fully supports existing NFC tags and devices. This ensures a smooth transition and eliminates the need for a complete overhaul of current infrastructure.

Currently, major tech companies like Apple, Google, Huawei, NXP, and Sony have access to the NFC Release 15 specifications. There's a chance the new NFC module could be integrated into the iPhone 17 this fall. The technology is expected to become publicly available in September 2025, at which point companies worldwide can freely implement the new standard into their products and services.

This update heralds a new era in contactless technology, making it even more convenient, efficient, and ubiquitous.