Which phones have NFC support?

What is NFC and why is it important?

NFC (Near Field Communication) is a technology that allows devices to communicate with each other over short distances. Think of contactless payment, file sharing or using NFC tags to automate actions. NFC is therefore playing an increasingly important role in our daily lives. Having an NFC-enabled phone opens up a world of useful and innovative applications.

Still, not every phone has NFC support. If you want to know which models do have it and what you can do with it, read on! Want to know more about NFC? In the article "What is NFC?" we explain exactly what it is.

Why an NFC-enabled phone?

A phone with NFC support is useful for daily activities:

• Contactless payments: Use your phone as a debit card through apps such as Google Pay or Apple Pay.

• Smart automations: Program NFC tags to control your lights, music or other devices.

• Fast data transfer: Share files, links or contact information without hassle.

• Access control: Use your phone as a digital key to secure rooms or devices.

NFC makes life easier, more efficient and often more fun. But which phones support this technology?

Phones with NFC support by brand

1. Apple iPhones

All iPhones starting with the iPhone 6 have NFC support, although the capabilities were initially limited to Apple Pay. As of iOS 13, this functionality has been expanded, so you can now read and program NFC tags with newer models.

• iPhone 6 (2014): NFC only for Apple Pay.

• iPhone 7 (2016): Reading NFC tags as of iOS 11.

• iPhone XS/XR and newer (2018): Read tags without additional apps (native support).

• As of iOS 13 (2019): Read and write tags with appropriate apps.

2. Samsung smartphones

Samsung was one of the first brands to introduce NFC. Almost all models in the Galaxy series support this technology. This applies to both the premium Galaxy S and Z series and the more affordable Galaxy A series.

Popular models with NFC support:

• Galaxy S21, S22, and the latest S23 series.

• Galaxy Z Flip and Galaxy Z Fold series.

• Galaxy A52, A72 and similar models.

3. Google Pixel phones

Google has included NFC by default in all Pixel phones. This makes them an excellent choice for Android users looking for versatile NFC functionality.

Popular models with NFC support:

• Pixel 3 and newer

• Pixel A Series

4. OnePlus smartphones

Most OnePlus models starting with the OnePlus 6 support NFC. This applies to their premium phones as well as the affordable Nord models.

Popular models with NFC support:

• OnePlus 7T, 8, 9 and newer.

• OnePlus Nord and Nord 2.

5. Xiaomi and Redmi phones

Not all Xiaomi and Redmi phones have NFC support, so it is important to check the specifications carefully. Usually, higher-end models have NFC, while budget models sometimes lack it.

Popular models with NFC support:

• Xiaomi Mi 10, Mi 11 and newer.

• Redmi Note 10 Pro and similar models

6. Sony Xperia phones

Sony is a regular player when it comes to NFC. Almost all recent Xperia models support this technology.

Popular models with NFC support:

• Xperia 1 series.

• Xperia 5 and 10 series.

7. Other brands

Other brands such as Huawei, Oppo and Motorola also offer models with NFC support. Especially in their mid- and high-end devices, NFC is often present.

How do you check if your phone has NFC support?

Unsure if your phone supports NFC? Here's how you can easily check: on Android, go to settings and search for "NFC" in the search bar. If this option is available, you can activate NFC. In iPhones, all models from the iPhone 6 onwards have NFC, but the functionalities may vary depending on the iOS version. Make sure your phone has the latest updates installed for best performance.

Checking NFC support with an application

Do you want to be sure if your phone has NFC support? Then you can download an application for this in the Play Store. Go to the Play Store and download the application ''Do i have NFC'' This application is free to download and does nothing but check if your device supports NFC. Don't want to download an application? Then you can take a look at the device's settings. Navigate to settings -> Wireless and networks -> More. Once there is no NFC among the settings, the device does not support NFC.

What can you do with NFC on your phone?

A phone with NFC support offers countless possibilities:

1. Automations with NFC tags: Program tags to automate daily tasks, such as turning off your WiFi or starting your favorite playlist.

2. Contactless Pay: Add your debit card to Google Pay or Apple Pay and pay anywhere contactless payments are accepted.

3. Access Systems: Use your phone as a digital key to your workplace or smart home.

4. Interact with smart devices: Control IoT devices such as smart lights or thermostats with a single tap.

5. Marketing and events: Companies are using NFC tags in products or at events for direct interaction with customers.

Is NFC support worth the investment?

For sure! NFC support is now a standard functionality in most modern smartphones and offers great convenience. Whether you want to work more productively, expand your smart home or impress with advanced technology, a phone with NFC support is a smart choice.

Choose your next phone with NFC-World

Don't have an NFC-enabled phone yet? At NFC World, we not only help you with NFC tags and tools, but also provide expert advice on suitable devices. That way you can be sure you're getting the most out of NFC technology. Want to know more? Then get in touch with us!