This icon refers to NFC (Near Field Communication) functionality. This technology enables the activation of wireless communication between two compatible devices, and only at a short distance.
What is NFC?
NFC or Near Field Communication is a technology that enables the exchange of data between devices when they are placed close to each other (a few centimeters). This technology resembles Bluetooth, with a few differences: NFC does not require prior pairing between devices like Bluetooth and consumes very little power.
What are the most common uses of NFC?
NFC functionality is primarily used for the following actions:
Contactless payment
The main use of NFC is contactless payment, either via a bank card equipped with an NFC chip or directly on your phone from a mobile wallet app (Samsung Pay, Google Pay or Apple Pay, for example) that allows you to pay by holding your phone near the payment terminal.
Public transport
Some public transport allows the use of a dematerialized pass with NFC technology. Just like contactless payments, the pass can be used from the transport provider’s app to travel without physical boarding documents.
For example, the partnership between Samsung and Île-de-France Mobilités allows customers to use Samsung Pay to purchase and validate metro tickets and Navigo packages. With this technology, you no longer need a ticket: you just need to use your phone or even a smart watch to take your favorite transport.
File sharing
NFC allows you to quickly transfer files between devices. The functionality is not available on the iPhone, which limits the use of NFC to Apple Pay payments, but it does exist on Android. The system allows the exchange of images, documents or links between several Android devices. This is a real plus for users who have both a tablet and a phone.
Reading NFC tags
NFC tags or tags are devices that can be integrated into objects to create interaction between the user and that object. For example, a sign can be part of an object whose goal is to provide interactive information to users, such as in certain museums or on signs in a city.
This functionality resembles a QR code, which has a similar purpose. However, NFC and QR code have very different characteristics:
- The QR code serves to direct the user to useful information. In most cases, it includes a link to access a specific site. A QR code is very easy to generate: many websites allow you to generate it for free in seconds.
- An NFC tag is an electronic chip. It is therefore physically integrated into an object to enable interaction between that object and a user equipped with a compatible telephone. Unlike a QR code, an NFC sticker or tag does not require an internet connection to be read. In the case of contactless payment, there is no need for an Internet connection because data is exchanged via radio waves.
- The QR code is passive: it does not communicate with the user. It simply triggers an action on their phone, like opening a page or launching an app. The NFC chip can in turn authorize access or payment. It can therefore be programmed for a specific use.
How to activate or deactivate NFC?
Here’s how to enable or disable NFC on your Android phone:
Go to your device’s settings, then access the “wireless and networks” menu. Click “More,” then turn NFC on or off.
The icon can also be easily accessed in Quick Settings by swiping down. If it does not appear, it is possible to turn it on from the options.
Should you turn off NFC when not in use?
Some users prefer to disable NFC for several reasons, more or less valid:
NFC draining battery?
Yes, NFC enabled consumes battery, but its consumption is extremely low and much less than Bluetooth. The battery savings obtained by deactivating NFC are therefore negligible.
NFC Facilitates Fraud?
With the rise in the adoption of contactless payments, many users have become concerned about potential fraud, including the risk of unintended payments caused by fraudsters and their own payment terminals. Rest assured: this is unlikely:
The limited reach of NFC makes it difficult for a fraudster to get close enough to a card or phone to make a contactless payment. In the case of a phone, several steps are required to confirm the intention to pay (opening the application, password, etc.)
Leaving NFC permanently activated therefore presents only minor drawbacks in terms of security and power consumption. However, turning off the feature when not in use is a best practice to optimize your device’s security and battery life.