Which phones support NFC?

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. Examples include contactless payments, file sharing, and using NFC tags to automate actions. As a result, NFC is playing an increasingly important role in our daily lives. Having a phone with NFC support opens up a world of convenient and innovative applications.

However, not every phone supports NFC. If you want to know which models do and what you can do with them, keep reading! Want to learn more about NFC? In the article “What is NFC?”, we explain exactly what it is.

Why choose a phone with NFC support? 

A phone with NFC support is useful for everyday activities: 

• Contactless payments: Use your phone as a debit card through apps like 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 hassle-free. 

• Access Control: Use your phone as a digital key for secure areas 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 support NFC, although its capabilities were initially limited to Apple Pay. Starting with iOS 13, this functionality has been expanded, so you can now also read and program NFC tags with newer models. 

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

• iPhone 7 (2016): Reads NFC tags starting with iOS 11. 

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

• Starting with iOS 13 (2019): Read and write tags using compatible apps. 

2. Samsung smartphones 

Samsung was one of the first brands to introduce NFC. Nearly 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 as a standard feature 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 models 

• Pixel A Series 

4. OnePlus smartphones 

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

Popular models with NFC support: 

• OnePlus 7T, 8, 9, and newer models. 

• OnePlus Nord and Nord 2. 

5. Xiaomi and Redmi phones 

Not all Xiaomi and Redmi phones support NFC, so it’s important to check the specifications carefully. Higher-end models usually have NFC, while budget models sometimes lack this feature. 

Popular models with NFC support: 

• Xiaomi Mi 10, Mi 11, and newer models. 

• Redmi Note 10 Pro and similar models 

6. Sony Xperia phones 

Sony is a major player when it comes to NFC. Virtually 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. NFC is particularly common in their mid-range and high-end devices. 

How do you check if your phone supports NFC? 

Not sure if your phone supports NFC? Here’s an easy way to check: on Android, go to Settings and search for “NFC” in the search bar. If this option is available, you can enable NFC. For iPhones, all models starting with the iPhone 6 have NFC, but the features may vary depending on the iOS version. Make sure your phone has the latest updates installed for optimal performance.

Checking for NFC support using an app

Want to make sure your phone supports NFC? You can download an app from the Play Store to check. Go to the Play Store and download the app “Do I Have NFC.” This app is free to download and does nothing but check whether your device supports NFC. Don’t want to download an app? Then you can check your device’s settings. Go to Settings -> Wireless & Networks -> More. If NFC isn’t listed in the settings, your device doesn’t 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 Wi-Fi or starting your favorite playlist. 

2. Contactless payments: 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 for your workplace or smart home. 

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

5. Marketing and Events: Companies use NFC tags in products or at events to interact directly with customers. 

Is NFC support worth the investment? 

You bet! NFC support has become a standard feature in most modern smartphones and offers great convenience. Whether you want to work more productively, expand your smart home, or impress others with cutting-edge 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 we also provide expert advice on compatible devices. That way, you can be sure you’re getting the most out of NFC technology. Want to learn more? Then contact us!