NFC is getting a range boost

The next version of the Near Field Communication (NFC) standard aims to make it easier to make payments, pair devices, and unlock doors using your phone or smartwatch. The most notable improvement is a boost to the distance of contactless connections from 0.5cm to 2cm, extending the range by x4.

The NFC Release 15 standard update means NFC chips shouldn’t need to be as precisely aligned with terminals to register a connection, which is especially beneficial for users who have to fumble with smaller devices like smart watches or rings. Tap-to-pay systems like Apple Pay will also start sooner, making contactless payments faster and more reliable. 

While some devices already register contactless connections at greater distances than 5mm, the NFC Forum behind the standard says the spec update is “redefining the baseline.” The NFC Release 15 is needed to support contactless applications that “demand higher reliability and a broader operating range,” according to the NFC Forum. That includes NFC tech being integrated into increasingly smaller devices and performing more complex activities with a single tap, such as using a wallet app to pay for products, receive digital receipts, and collect store loyalty points.

The NFC Release 15 is currently available to high level NFC Forum member companies, including Apple, Google, Sony, and Huawei, allowing them to start implementing the improvements in their own products. Compliance certification will be made available to the public sometime this fall. The Verge has asked the NFC Forum if existing NFC devices can be updated to support the new release standard when it rolls out but didn’t hear back before publication.