Q. With reference to ‘Near Field Communication (NFC) Technology’, which of the following is/are correct?

It is a contactless communication technology that uses electromagnetic radio fields.
NFC is designed for use by devices which can be at a distance of even a metre from each other.
NFC can use encryption when sending sensitive information.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only

NFC is a short-range wireless connectivity technology that allows NFC-enabled devices to communicate with each other and transfer information quickly and easily with a single touch – whether to pay bills, exchange business cards, download coupons, or share a document.
NFC transmits data through electromagnetic radio fields, to enable communication between two devices. Both devices must contain NFC chips, as transactions take place within a very short distance.
- NFC-enabled devices must be either physically touching or within a few centimetres from each other for data transfer to occur.
In 2004, consumer electronics companies, Nokia, Philips and Sony together formed the NFC Forum, which outlined the architecture for NFC technology to create powerful new consumer-driven products.
Nokia released the first NFC-enabled phone in 2007.
Other Applications:
- It is used in contactless banking cards to perform money transactions or to generate contact-less tickets for public transport.
  - Contactless cards and readers use NFC in several applications from securing networks and buildings to monitoring inventory and sales, preventing auto theft, and running unmanned toll booths.
- It is present in speakers, household appliances, and other electronic devices that are controlled through smartphones.
- It also has an application in healthcare, to monitor patient stats through NFC-enabled wristbands. NFC is used in wireless charging too.