The upcoming NFC Release 15 standard introduces a significant increase in the range of contactless NFC connections from 0.5cm to 2cm, quadrupling the effective distance. This update allows devices like smartphones, smartwatches, and rings to connect more easily without precise alignment, enhancing ease of tap-to-pay transactions, device pairing, and door unlocking. The improved range aims to support growing demands for reliability and broader operating use cases, including complex single-tap functions such as paying, receiving receipts, and collecting loyalty points. Major tech companies including Apple, Google, Sony, and Huawei have early access to the update, with public certification available in fall. The NFC Forum has not confirmed if existing NFC devices will support this new standard via updates.
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