As of 2011 all new Nokia smartphones to pack NFC support
The Near Field Communication technology isn't as popular as expected but, apparently, Nokia is about to change that really soon. So far, there have been only a few NFC compatible devices but as of 2011 all Nokia smartphones are expected to come with NFC support on board.
This was announced by company's executive vice president for markets, Anssi Vanjoki, at the 10th anniversary meeting of Mobey Forum in Helsinki, Finnland.
To refresh your memory, the Near Field Communication technology (or just NFC) is a short-range wireless communication technology that enables the exchange of data between devices over about a 10 cm distance.
The Near Field Communication technology is an upgrade of the existing proximity card standard (RFID) that combines the interface of a smartcard and a reader into a single device. It allows users to seamlessly share content between digital devices, pay bills wirelessly or use their cellphone as an electronic traveling ticket on existing contactless infrastructure already in use for public transportation and payment.
The connection between two NFC devices is established at once (under a tenth of a second). Another major advanatage of the NFC is its reliability. Due to its shorter operating range, NFC provides a higher degree of security than Bluetooth.
According to Anssi Vanjoki, the upcoming devices are expected to feature support for all open business models, including SWP as well as other element formats (microSD cards and probably an embedded secure element). Third party app developers will soon get the needed tools so they can start work on applications.
The news comes only several months after Nokia have decided to give up on their latest NFC compatible phone, the Nokia 6216 classic which was unveiled back in April 2009.