Introduction
Table of Contents:
What Is an NFC Tag?
What Is NFC?
What Is RFID?
How Do NFC Tags Work?
RFID and NFC: Different Features.
How Did NFC Tags Become Popular?
NFC Tag Components.
Types of NFC Tags.
Applications of NFC Tags.
Business Benefits of Using NFC.
How to Write Data on NFC Tags?
NFC Tag FAQ
Conclusion.
Introduction.
When a smartphone unlocks a door with a simple tap, or when a clothing tag instantly reveals product traceability information, the seamless interaction behind these experiences is powered by NFC tags. As the core carrier of Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, NFC tags are reshaping the way people connect with objects and information through fast, contactless interactions.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of how NFC tags work, their key application scenarios, and future development trends—offering insights into the significant value this tiny piece of hardware brings to smart living and digital business.
What Is an NFC Tag?
An NFC tag is a contactless electronic tag based on Near Field Communication (NFC) technology. It enables short-range wireless communication with NFC-enabled devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and more — typically within a distance of 10 centimeters or less for data exchange.
These tags usually contain a miniature chip and an antenna, encapsulated in compact forms such as cards, stickers, keychains, or wristbands. NFC tags do not require a battery; instead, they draw power by establishing a magnetic field connection with a reading device (e.g., a smartphone), allowing them to communicate and operate effectively.
What Is NFC?
An NFC tag is a contactless electronic tag based on Near Field Communication (NFC) technology. It enables short-range wireless communication with NFC-enabled devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and more — typically within a range of 10 centimeters for data exchange.
These tags usually contain a miniature chip and antenna, encapsulated in compact forms such as cards, stickers, keychains, or wristbands. NFC tags do not require a battery; instead, they draw power by establishing a magnetic field connection with a reading device (e.g., a smartphone), which allows them to function and transmit data.
In summary:
RFID tags are ideal for applications that require long-range, one-way data reading, such as inventory tracking.
NFC tags are better suited for scenarios that demand precise control and two-way communication, such as mobile payments and identity verification.
What Is RFID?
RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) is considered the forerunner of NFC technology. One of the most familiar applications of RFID is in anti-theft tags attached to high-value items in retail stores.
Beyond security, RFID has proven to be a highly effective tool for tracking inventory across multiple industries — including manufacturing, healthcare, automotive, and fashion — essentially, in any field that requires efficient item identification and monitoring.
How Do NFC Tags Work?
The working principle of NFC (Near Field Communication) tags is similar to that of traditional RFID tags — both use radio waves to transmit information. A typical NFC interaction involves two devices: one is the NFC tag, and the other is an NFC reader (such as a smartphone). The two communicate using a data format known as NDEF (NFC Data Exchange Format) to enable reading and writing of information.
How It Works:
When an NFC-enabled device (like a smartphone) comes close to an NFC tag, the tag emits radio waves to activate the receiving antenna within the device. The tag itself is passive, meaning it doesn’t contain a battery. Instead, it draws power from the electromagnetic field generated by the reader, which then powers the chip to complete the data exchange process.
NFC operates over a very short distance, typically within 4 inches (about 10 cm). This short range is one of the key reasons why NFC is widely used in secure payment systems and access control — the close proximity required helps prevent accidental activation or remote data theft.
One-to-One Communication for Enhanced Security:
An NFC reader can only communicate with one NFC tag at a time, which minimizes the risk of interference or errors from reading multiple tags simultaneously. In scenarios such as public transport or contactless payment, this ensures that only the intended device responds, making transactions more precise and secure.
NFC Chips and Mobile Payment:
In mobile payment applications, NFC chips play a central role. The NFC chip inside a smartphone communicates securely with the NFC module in a POS terminal using encrypted data exchange, transmitting sensitive details such as card numbers and authentication data. Users can digitally store multiple cards (bank cards, membership cards, etc.) on their smartphone, making it possible to pay without carrying physical cards.
Today, NFC chips are used not only for payments, but also in identity verification, access control, smart home automation, and tag information retrieval — contributing to a smarter and more convenient digital lifestyle.
RFID and NFC: Different Features.
| Feature | RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) | NFC (Near Field Communication) |
| Communication | One-way communication; tag sends signal to reader | Supports one-way and two-way communication; devices can interact |
| Reading Distance | Long range, up to several meters or even tens of meters | Short range, typically within 10 centimeters |
| Power Source | Passive tags require no battery; active tags have batteries | Tags are usually passive, powered by induction from the reader |
| Device Compatibility | Requires dedicated readers | Many smartphones and tablets have built-in NFC |
| Main Applications | Logistics tracking, inventory management, anti-theft | Mobile payments, access control, identity verification, data exchange |
| Pairing & Sync | No pairing required, automatic reading | No pairing needed, fast connection establishment |
| Security | Lower security due to longer communication range | Higher security thanks to short-range communication reducing theft risk |
How Did NFC Tags Become Popular?
Although NFC (Near Field Communication) technology has been around for many years, it has only truly entered the public spotlight in recent times, thanks to the rapid growth of smart devices and mobile payments. As early as 2006, Nokia launched the world’s first mobile phone equipped with NFC, marking the beginning of its application in consumer electronics.
As major tech companies began to recognize the strategic importance of NFC in enabling a contactless future, the technology quickly gained momentum. The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated this trend, as consumers sought safer, touch-free ways to interact with their devices and make payments.
Between March 2019 and June 2020, contactless payments in the United States alone increased by 150%. What was once a solution for small purchases has evolved into one of the most widely used mobile payment methods. This surge in mobile payment adoption has directly contributed to the global rise of NFC technology.
Today, there are over 2 billion NFC-enabled devices in use worldwide, and around 20% of the global population has access to this convenient and secure short-range communication technology.
NFC Tag Components.
Although NFC tags appear small and simple on the outside, they are made up of several key components working together internally to enable stable and efficient near-field communication. Below is a detailed breakdown of the main structural elements of an NFC tag:
NFC Chip – The Control Center for Commands and Data
The NFC chip serves as the brain of the tag. It integrates memory units and processing logic, and is responsible for receiving signals from external devices (such as smartphones or card readers), executing commands, and handling data exchanges.
In addition, the chip determines the tag’s storage capacity, encryption capabilities, and read/write speed — making it the core technical component of the tag.
Antenna – The Essential Bridge for Wireless Communication
The antenna in an NFC tag is responsible for transmitting and receiving electromagnetic signals. When an NFC-enabled device (like a smartphone) comes close, the antenna converts its electromagnetic field into electrical energy to power the chip and initiate data transmission.
It also emits the processed data from the chip as radio waves to complete the communication cycle.
The design, material, and winding method of the antenna significantly impact the tag’s performance, read range, and signal sensitivity. Common materials include copper wire, aluminum etching, and silver paste.
Substrate – Structural Support and Encapsulation Base
The substrate is the material that holds the chip and antenna in place. It is typically made of PET (polyester film), PVC, paper, or flexible plastics, depending on the application.
It provides physical support and protection, while also influencing the tag’s thickness, flexibility, and environmental resistance.
For example, flexible substrates are ideal for sticker-type NFC tags, whereas more rigid substrates are commonly used in access control cards or industrial environments.
Types of NFC Tags.
Choosing the right type of NFC tag depends on your application needs — are you prioritizing cost efficiency or data security? Do you need faster data transmission or longer read range?
In today’s increasingly smart world, NFC (Near Field Communication) tags serve as a vital bridge between the Internet of Things (IoT) and smart devices. They are widely used in areas such as mobile payments, access control, smart advertising, and product traceability. Based on different standards and application scenarios, NFC tags are primarily classified into the following types:
Type 1 Tags:
Based on Topaz chips, these tags are low-cost and easy to use, making them ideal for basic applications that do not require large storage or high security. Memory starts at 96 bytes and can be expanded up to 2KB. They support basic read/write operations.
Type 2 Tags:
Represented by NXP’s Mifare Ultralight series, this is the most commonly used NFC tag type in the market. It offers a great balance between cost and performance, with low power consumption and moderate memory capacity (ranging from 48 bytes to 2KB). Commonly used in transportation tickets, event passes, and smart labels.
Type 3 Tags:
Powered by Sony’s FeliCa technology, these tags support higher data transfer speeds and larger memory (up to hundreds of kilobytes or even 1MB). They are ideal for applications that require frequent data exchange or large data storage, such as transit systems and digital wallets in Japan.
Type 4 Tags:
Based on NXP’s DESFire or NTAG 4 series chips, Type 4 tags offer enhanced security and expanded memory (up to 32KB). They support encryption and multi-level access control, making them a top choice for secure applications like financial transactions, access systems, and corporate identity solutions.
Type 5 Tags:
Compliant with the ISO 15693 standard, these tags are typically represented by STMicroelectronics’ ST25TV chips. Their standout feature is extended read range—up to 1 meter—and higher memory capacity of up to 64KB. These are well-suited for asset tracking, warehouse logistics, and industrial IoT applications.
Applications of NFC Tags.
1. Identity Verification and Access Control
NFC tags are widely used in identity verification and access control systems. For example, employee badges, student cards, and visitor passes can embed NFC tags to enable quick tap-and-go access. Offices, hotels, and residential buildings often use NFC tags or smartphone NFC functions for door access management, supporting hierarchical permission control to enhance security.
2. Mobile Payments and Ticketing
In mobile payment and ticketing systems, NFC tags allow users to quickly pay by tapping their phones for public transport, subways, parking lots, and more. This payment method is widely adopted on platforms like Apple Pay and Huawei Pay. Additionally, NFC tags can serve as electronic tickets for concerts, exhibitions, museums, supporting fast offline verification and improving entry efficiency.
3. Product Anti-counterfeiting and Traceability
Product anti-counterfeiting and traceability are important applications of NFC tags. High-value goods such as alcoholic beverages and luxury items use NFC tags for authentication. Consumers can simply tap the tag with their phone to check product traceability, production batches, and logistics information, helping to identify genuine products and protect brand reputation.
4. Smart Advertising and Interactive Marketing
In smart advertising and interactive marketing, NFC tags can be embedded in posters or brochures. Users tap their phones on the tag to be redirected to promotional pages, participate in campaigns, or receive coupons. Compared to QR codes, NFC provides more interactive and secure experiences, making it suitable for malls, street advertising, and trade shows.
5. Smart Home and Automation
Smart homes widely adopt NFC tags. Users can preset multiple NFC tags at home, such as one placed on the bedside table to turn off lights and set alarms when tapped, or another by the door to connect to Wi-Fi or activate smart devices. Combined with app programming, NFC simplifies daily operations and enhances convenience.
6. Industrial Applications and Asset Management
In industrial settings, NFC tags are used for identification and tracking of equipment, tools, and inventory. Factories use NFC tags to record equipment usage, maintenance, and inventory status. With waterproof and dustproof industrial-grade tags, NFC technology adapts to harsh environments and greatly improves asset management efficiency.
7. Pet and Personal Item Management
Pet and personal item management is an emerging application of NFC tags. For example, NFC tags embedded in pet collars can store vaccination records, pet identities, and owner contact information. Similar technology is used for keychains, wallets, or luggage to prevent loss and facilitate recovery.
8. Vehicle Management and Intelligent Transportation
In vehicle management and intelligent transportation, NFC tags serve as parking access credentials, vehicle identification, or keyless start systems. In public transportation, NFC tags are used for transit card recharges, tap-in/tap-out, and travel record-keeping.
9. Medical and Health Tracking
In medical and health tracking, NFC tags can be embedded in patient wristbands, medication packaging, or medical devices to enable contactless identity verification, medication information retrieval, or medical history reading, improving hospital efficiency and patient management accuracy.
10. Document Authentication and Information Transmission
Document authentication and information transmission are practical NFC tag applications. NFC business cards allow quick adding of contacts, phone dialing, or webpage redirection with a tap. Important certificates or official documents embedded with NFC tags can be verified for authenticity and tamper prevention, ensuring secure information management.
Business Benefits of Using NFC Tag
Adopting NFC technology can bring businesses a wide range of benefits—not only improving efficiency and user experience, but also enhancing brand value and market competitiveness. Here are the key advantages of using NFC in the enterprise context:
1. Enhancing Customer Experience and Streamlining Interactions
NFC offers a seamless tap-and-go interaction method. Without opening an app or scanning a code, users can simply tap their smartphones or smart devices on an NFC tag to complete payments, check-ins, or access content—significantly improving customer convenience and satisfaction.
2. Supporting Multi-Scenario Digital Transformation
Businesses can apply NFC in various scenarios such as access control, employee management, smart asset tracking, product traceability, and smart retail. This drives digital and intelligent upgrades across office operations and workflows.
3. Reducing Operational Costs and System Upgrade Burdens
NFC can be deployed using existing hardware, and it is compatible with mainstream POS systems and smart devices. This eliminates the need for large-scale upgrades, helping businesses reduce investment costs while improving deployment efficiency.
4. Strengthening Brand Engagement and Marketing Capabilities
By embedding NFC tags in product packaging, promotional materials, or advertisements, businesses can create more direct and intelligent interactions with consumers. Tapping a tag can instantly redirect users to the brand website, campaign page, or coupon offers—boosting marketing conversions.
5. Improving Data Security and Anti-Counterfeiting
NFC supports encryption and authentication, making it suitable for applications like digital IDs, anti-counterfeit labels, and access control. This helps companies protect sensitive data and prevent counterfeit products from entering the market.
6. Enabling Trackable and Analyzable Data Feedback
Businesses can collect data on NFC tag usage frequency, activation locations, and user behavior. This data is valuable for behavior analysis and operational efficiency insights, supporting more informed decision-making.
7. Enhancing Technological Image and Brand Innovation
In competitive markets, adopting cutting-edge technologies like NFC helps reinforce a brand's image as modern and innovative, creating a clear point of differentiation and appealing to tech-savvy consumers.
How to Write Data on NFC Tags?
To fully leverage the power of NFC technology, learning how to program NFC tags is an essential step. Fortunately, the NFC programming process is quite simple.
What is NFC Tag Programming?
NFC tag programming refers to the process of writing actions or information onto a tag that you want it to perform or store. You can download a free NFC programming app from the app store and run it on your smartphone. Before getting started, make sure to enable the NFC feature on your device.
What You Need for NFC Programming
To begin programming NFC tags, you will need the following:
· Blank NFC Tags: You’ll need a new, blank NFC tag or one that you no longer use. These are very affordable and can be purchased on eBay or other online marketplaces.
· An NFC-enabled Android or iPhone: Check your phone’s specifications to confirm NFC compatibility. Note that only iPhone 7 and newer models support writing to NFC tags.
· A Tag Programming App: There are many free NFC writer apps available in the app store, such as Trigger, NFC Tools, or NXP’s NFC TagWriter. For this guide, we’ll use NFC Tools as an example because it’s more user-friendly than other NFC apps.
Programming NFC Tags on Android
1. Enable NFC on Your Android Device
Go to Settings > Bluetooth & Connections > Connection Preferences > NFC, then toggle NFC on. On some phones, the NFC setting may be found under “Network and Sharing”.
2. Install an NFC Writer App
Open the Google Play Store and install an NFC writing app such as NFC Writer by Trigger.
3. Launch the Trigger App
Once installed, tap “YES” to launch the app. Tap the plus sign (“+”) at the bottom right to create a new task and begin writing to an NFC tag.
Using NFC Tools to Write NFC Tags on Android
1. Open the NFC Tools App and Select “Write”
2. Add a Record: You’ll see various types of content you can write. For example, to write a URL, choose the “URL/URI” option.
3. Enter the URL: Choose the protocol (e.g., https://) and input your URL, such as https://www.google.com, then tap OK.
4. Tap “Write” and confirm to write the data.
5. Place the NFC Tag Near Your Phone’s NFC Area: The tag will be programmed automatically.
6. Add a Task (Optional): You can add task automation, but you'll need to install the NFC Tasks app first.
7. Read the Tag: Hold your phone near the NFC tag to view its content and functionality.
8. View Tag Details: Scan the tag to see its type, serial number, memory size, data format, and more.
Programming NFC Tags on iOS
1. Install an NFC App from the App Store
Choose a supported app such as NFC Tools or NXP’s NFC Writer. In this guide, we’ll use NFC Tools.
2. Open NFC Tools and Tap “Write”
3. Create a New Record: Tap to add the information you want to store.
4. Add the Record: You can add various types of content, such as a website URL, a command, or other data.
5. Confirm the Data: Once you’ve confirmed the content, you're ready to write the tag.
6. Place the Blank NFC Tag Near the iPhone’s NFC Chip Area, then tap “Write”.
7. Writing Complete: You’ll see a notification indicating that the tag has been successfully written.
NFC Tag FAQ
· What is an NFC tag?
An NFC (Near Field Communication) tag is a type of technology that uses radio waves to transmit data over very short distances, designed for close-range communication.
· What are NFC tags used for?
NFC tags are commonly used in situations where small amounts of data need to be transferred quickly. One of the most well-known applications is mobile payments via smartphones—users can simply bring their phones close to a reader to complete a transaction. In reality, the potential uses of NFC tags are virtually limitless.
· How do NFC tags work?
NFC tags do not have their own power source; instead, they draw energy from a nearby reader using magnetic induction. When a device comes close enough, it powers the tag and facilitates data transfer.
· Are NFC tags rewritable?
Among the five types of NFC tags, types 1 through 3 can be rewritten. However, they can also be locked after writing to prevent further changes.
· How do smartphones use NFC?
Smartphones use NFC technology in a variety of ways, including making payments, accessing boarding passes, and sharing contacts, photos, or directions with nearby devices.
Conclusion.
As smart applications continue to expand, NFC tags are evolving from a niche technology to mainstream adoption—extending far beyond simple identification to enable secure payments, intelligent marketing, supply chain traceability, and more. More than just a tag, NFC is a low-cost, high-efficiency gateway to seamless information access and interaction.
Where to buy NFC tags? If you're looking to purchase NFC tags for various use cases, we invite you to contact CBT for expert consultation and product recommendations. From standard NTAG series to industrial-grade waterproof and on-metal tags, we offer a wide range of solutions to help you embrace the “tap-and-connect” experience of the IoT era with ease.
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