NFC is rooted in radio-frequency identification technology (known as RFID) which allows compatible hardware to both supply power to and communicate with an otherwise unpowered and passive electronic tag using radio waves. 

Near-field communication (NFC) is a set of communication protocols that enables communication between two electronic devices over a distance of 4 centimetres (1.6 in) or less.

Like other proximity card technologies, NFC is based on inductive coupling between two electromgnetic coils present on a NFC-enabled device such as a smartphone. NFC communicating in one or both directions uses a frequency of 13.56 MHz in the globally available unlicensed radio frequency ISM band, compliant with the ISO/IEC 18000-3 air interface standard at data rates ranging from 106 to 848 kbit/s.

A proximity card or prox card also known as a key card or keycard is a contactless smart card which can be read without inserting it into a reader device, as required by earlier magnetic stripe cards such as credit cards and contact type smart cards.

The proximity cards are part of the contactless card technologies. Held near an electronic reader for a moment they execute a predefined function.

Generally, a distinction is made between the following two card types:

Passive cards

Passive 125 kHz cards – the more widely used type – are powered by radio frequency signals from the reader device and so have a limited range and must be held close to the reader unit. For example, they are used as keycards for access control doors in office buildings. A version with more memory, contactless smartcards, are used for other applications: library cards, contactless payment systems, and public transit fare cards. Passive cards are recently used as digital business card, as well.

Active cards

Active 125 kHz prox cards, sometimes called vicinity cards, are powered by an internal lithium battery. They can have a greater range, up to 2 meters (6 ft). Other contactless technologies like UHF (Ultra High Frequency) smart cards can reach up to 150 meters (500 ft) and are often used for applications where the card is read inside a vehicle, such as security gates which open when a vehicle with the access card inside approaches, or automated toll collection. The battery eventually runs down, however, and the card must be replaced after 2 to 7 years.

The global NFC chip market is valued at USD 1.9 billion in 2023.

Sales of NFC chips are predicted to reach USD 7.6 billion by 2033.

Leading market players are NXP Semiconductors N.V., MediaTek Inc. and Nordic Semiconductor.

Sharing information is as simple as a tap, no apps needed. We utilise the power of your phone’s built-in NFC technology, making it as easy as thinkable to share your information using any Cloud2Go product, such as our digital business cards, DigiPens, NFC Tags or NFC based keychains.

Digital business cards are an innovative, eco-friendly alternative to traditional paper business cards. They support your networking activities by allowing the quick exchange of basic data such as mobile and phone number, email, address or social media contacts by NFC technology or QR codes. IN addition, you can share multimedia files like images, videos and other links. Thus, digital business cards enhance online visibility, enable customization with multimedia content, and offer a cost-effective, eco-friendly solution for networking and building connections on the digital age. Last but not least any changes are just one click away, as you can update the data shares with your Cloud2Go Smartcard via your user account in seconds.

At Cloud2Go, we often encounter the question, „Can I preview my design before purchasing?“ We believe that no logo uploader or previewer matches our in-house designers. We are commited to ensuring that your design, paired with our products, stands unrivalled in the market.

So here’s our effortless process: once you’ve selected and purchased your products, we’ll email you a design brief to complete. Then, our skilled design team will create a stunning visual mockup that’s sent your way for review. Feel free to request as many revisions as you need until you’re completely satisfied.

Of course, we offer the customization of the back of your new digital business cards, as well. You can whether opt for a version with or without QR code. And beside of this, we can design the remaining space according to your wishes.