Those paying with contactless gadgets, especially the smallest ones like watches or rings, sometimes encounter a problem. Establishing a connection requires the device to be positioned appropriately relative to the terminal. The new version of the NFC standard provides for an increase in range and means an end to “hand-twisting”.
On June 17, 2025, the NFC Forum announced that work on the global NFC 15 standard had been finalized. The forum's work includes Apple, Google, Huawei, Sony, and manufacturers of components responsible for near-field communication (NXP, ST Microelectronics).
The most important novelty from the point of view of users is the increase in the distance at which it will be possible to establish an NFC connection . As indicated in the press release, certified devices compliant with the NFC 15 specification will be able to start communication at a distance of 2 cm, which is four times greater than the current distance (0.5 cm).
“Many markets will benefit from the extended coverage, with consumers gaining the most from the improved user experience. NFC Release 15 is expected to redefine the foundations for contactless connectivity, driving new use cases such as using a mobile phone as a payment terminal, and optimizing NFC usability across a variety of sectors including automotive, public transportation, and access control,” said Mike McCamon, Director of the NFC Forum.
The NFC Forum points out that there are already devices on the market that operate on the basis of an extended range, even exceeding 2 cm. The role of standards, however, is to set minimums for all compatible devices, even the smallest ones – wearable gadgets and smartwatches.
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