NFC Forum introduced version 15 of the NFC (Near Field Communication) standard. The most notable upgrade is the extended communication range. It’s now 2 cm, up from 0.5 cm. This makes tasks such as contactless payments faster and more stable.
With the increased range, the NFC no longer requires precise device alignment and enables more consistent connections. The new NFC 15 benefits compact devices like smartphones and wearables the most.
The new NFC standard should reduce failed tap payments, for example, and simplify NFC use. It also enables smoother interactions in public transport, better “digital keys” experience and easier wireless charging alignment.
Despite the extended range, the NFC Forum says the new standard doesn’t compromise security. It remains a proximity-based feature and protects contactless payments.
NFC 15 also brings support for Digital Product Passport (DPP) allowing brands to store product lifecycle data using the NFC Data Exchange Format (NDEF).
The NFC 15 standard’s technical specifications are already available, while public access and compliance certification will begin this fall.
