NFC or Near Field Communications is a technology which allows for contactless data exchange between two devices in close proximity to each other. This technology has been actively pushed by Google and is in fact the technology behind Google Wallet, a mobile payment system that utilizes Android phones. Nokia has also released NFC-enabled handsets and accessories recently. With the convenience brought about by NFC technology and the kind of support it’s getting, it’s just a matter of time before NFC becomes a standard in data exchange or connection between devices.
Locally, Smart Communications claims to be the first to implement NFC technology. It is now being used by the network, albeit limited to the Nokia C7 for now, and the use is also limited to downloading content. Smart Communications recently introduced “Tap Share”, a new service that lets Smart subscribers download content by tapping on a poster in Smart business centers.
With an NFC-enabled Nokia C7, Smart subscribers can now get information or download mobile content such as news, music, and games using specially-marked posters in selected Smart Wireless Centers and Smart stores nationwide. The service is free for postpaid subscribers.
“With Tap Share, Smart is once again pioneering innovation in the Philippines,” said Smart Chief Wireless Advisor Orlando B. Vea. This contactless technology offers our users a hassle-free and safe means of availing of products—they no longer need to memorize lengthy keywords, codes, and URLs to enjoy a service,” he said.
“As more NFC-enabled handsets become available in the future, we will be adding more Tap Share services in even more Smart branches,” Vea added.
Existing Nokia C7 users can update their phone software by going to their phone’s update menu or by connecting their phone to their PC via Nokia PC Suite. Or they can visit the nearest Nokia Care Center to have their phone software updated for free.
