Apple Rumors Release of NFC
Rumors are beginning to surface regarding the new iPhone 5 having Near Field Communication (NFC). Numerous developers are confident the iPhone 5 will have Near Field Communication (NFC), which allows the iPhone to process payments electronically. Apple will need a partner such as Visa/Mastercard to make this completely functional. >What is NFC?
Wikipedia says:
Near field communication (NFC) is a set of standards for smartphones and similar devices to establish radio communication with each other by touching them together or bringing them into close proximity, usually no more than a few centimeters. Present and anticipated applications include contactless transactions, data exchange, and simplified setup of more complex communications such as Wi-Fi.[1] Communication is also possible between an NFC device and an unpowered NFC chip, called a “tag”
Sources believe the release of NFC is growing near. Many say Apple will be the leading contender in this type of technology.
One credible report came from The New York Times in March 2011.
“According to two people with knowledge of the inner workings of a coming iteration of the Apple iPhone – although not necessarily the next one – a chip made by Qualcomm for the phone’s processor will also include near-field communication technology, known as N.F.C. This technology enables short-range wireless communications between the phone and an N.F.C reader, and can be used to make mobile payments. It is unclear which version of an iPhone this technology would be built into.”
The New York Times predicts Apple will have a solution which will include users iTunes account. Many thought the technology would be released with the iPhone 4S. However, seeing the technology did not release with the iPhone 4S many think it will come when the iPhone 5 arrives this year.
Apple has always been very tight lipped and secretive about all the inner workings of their company. One can only assume they are trying to prevent their competitors from acquiring knowledge of the subject.
During Macworld 2012 a developer was quoted saying, “Apple is heavy into NFC”. There was great discussion of several applications already being developed which included NFC integration. One developer was overheard saying, “he would bet his app on the possibility of NFC integration.” The use of NFC would be in direct line with the way Apple tends to operate.
It wasn’t long ago Apple introduced purchasing mp3’s through iTunes and listening to digital music on an iPod. It seemed no one listened to mp3 players or carried mp3’s until Apple unveiled the iPod. Apple has already persuaded people to use electronic payments inside iTunes since it started. Apple has the power to make changes at anytime. Therefore, many think if Apple introduces NFC other mobile companies will follow in order to remain competitive.
Many are curious to see whom Apple would make a partner for NFC? Most think mobile device companies have been preparing for NFC for quite some time. Most companies have been preparing their devices to perform and compete on all fronts including Near Field Communication (NFC). NFC will open the doors for many types of transactions and electronic payments. We haven’t touched the tip of the iceberg, which this will bring. Maybe next year’s community yard sale can accept NFC payments. The neighborhood kids may be able to accept electronic payments at the lemonade stand through NFC. Only time will tell.
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