Technology News
India is embracing NFC: Why this contactless payment mode is the next big thing after UPI | Technology News

[ad_1]
If you own a smartphone priced over Rs 20K, there’s a good chance it supports near-field communication (NFC). This technology, which uses radio waves to transmit data over short distances, has become something of a global phenomenon and is being used by billions worldwide, primarily for payments.
However, India is not on the same page as the rest of the world when it comes to NFC. The technology is still in its infancy in the country, and not many people are aware of its benefits and uses. In this article, we will explore what NFC is, how it works for payments, and what it can do for India.
What is NFC and how does it work?
NFC is a way of making devices like phones and smartwatches exchange tiny snippets of data with other devices or read NFC-enabled cards over short distances. It is based on the same technology as RFID, which has been around for decades, except with more features and greater security.
NFC in smartphones is enabled by an NFC controller chip and an NFC antenna. The NFC controller chip combines an NFC reader and an NFC tag. The NFC chip allows the phone to communicate with other NFC-enabled devices and tags.
One of the best things about NFC is that it is very easy to use. You don’t have to do anything complicated like pairing devices or entering passwords like you do with Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. It works automatically when the devices are close enough, usually within a few centimetres. In most cases, you have to touch the devices together to start the communication, so there are no worries about accidental triggers.
Why are NFC payments so popular outside India?
NFC has a bunch of use cases (more on that later) but it’s primarily used for payments as mentioned above. While already popular around the world, this contactless mode of payment really caught on during the Covid-19 pandemic for obvious reasons.
It really started off with contactless cards – an easy one-tap solution for smaller transactions without the need to enter a PIN. But then Apple Pay came along in 2014, and even though Apple holds back from mentioning NFC on the promo material, the payment service is indeed powered by the technology. Google Pay also grew in popularity around the same time for Android devices.
Soon after Apple and Google Pay (not to be confused with its Indian UPI-powered version), mobile payments powered by NFC became the norm. Aside from the hygiene and convenience factor, mobile payments are also encouraged because they’re more secure than card payments. Anyone can get their hands on your physical debit/credit card and tap it as easily as you can. On the other hand, mobile payments are protected by an additional layer of security since they require you to unlock your device first.
How do NFC payments stack up against UPI?
In India, UPI payments are overwhelmingly preferred to NFC, and the reasons mostly come down to accessibility and cost. Not all phones actually have an NFC sensor built in – those still tend to be more high-end models. But with QR codes and UPI apps, even more basic phones can get in on the contactless payment action.
Meanwhile, for street vendors and small business owners on the other end, simply having a printout of a QR code is way cheaper and easier to manage than having to get an NFC reader set up. The business case for NFC just isn’t compelling enough in India where so many people still use basic phones.
To get a better idea about how NFC differs from UPI, read our previous explainer on the latter.
However, thanks to recent initiatives by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), NFC and UPI payments will soon not be as mutually exclusive anymore. In September, NPCI announced UPI Tap & Pay – an extension of the Indian payment method that will let users make payments simply by tapping their devices on NFC-enabled QR codes at merchant locations. When this goes live, expect phone brands to bring NFC to more affordable handsets.
Apart from this, a few UPI payment apps also let you pay via NFC. In 2022, Google Pay launched a feature that lets users pay via NFC. It’s as simple as tapping your phone on the payment terminal which launches the Google Pay app automatically, and then confirming the payment.
What are the other things you can do with NFC?
While mobile wallets like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay remain the most common use cases, NFC tags and chips can do so much more in this day and age.
For starters, NFC provides a super quick and easy way to share content between devices. Before cloud storage and wireless transfer protocols like AirDrop became ubiquitous, Android had a feature called Android Beam that let you tap two NFC-enabled phones together to transmit photos, links, contacts, and more. It was shelved in favour of Bluetooth-based tech like Nearby Share, but it demonstrated NFC’s potential for lightning-fast peer-to-peer communication.
Most Read
The convenience extends beyond phones too. Pairing accessories like wireless headphones or speakers is a seamless experience with NFC. Simply tap the device to your phone once and they automatically connect without fussing over Bluetooth settings. This makes NFC a godsend for less tech-savvy users.
Public transit is an often overlooked use case for NFC. Cities like London, Hong Kong, and Singapore use NFC-based smart cards for access control and payments on trains and buses. No need to top up prepaid cards or fumble with change.
Is it safe to leave your phone’s NFC on all the time?
It may seem concerning to keep NFC enabled at all times but most security experts agree that the risks are relatively low for the average user. NFC has built-in security protections like encryption and short transmission ranges that make remote hacking attacks unlikely. Unless you regularly tap your phone against unfamiliar NFC readers, it’s generally safe to leave the feature on for convenience. However, users handling sensitive data may want to toggle NFC off when not in use as an extra precaution.
[ad_2]
Source link
Technology News
Circle to Search: Share part of your screen!

According to recent reports, Circle to Search, a feature introduced with the Samsung Galaxy S24 series in January 2024, might soon undergo an upgrade. Initially allowing users to copy text from selected areas, it’s now rumored to include the capability to capture and share screenshots of specific screen sections.
This enhanced functionality, observed in the latest version of Circle to Search, enables users to not only copy text but also capture and share screen images. A video shared by a tipster on X showcased this update, revealing new options of Copy and Share upon selecting an area. Even adjustments to the selected region don’t remove these options, ensuring a seamless experience. Users can either copy the image to the clipboard for further editing or share it directly through various apps.
Previously, the visual lookup feature solely facilitated text copying. While Android devices offer a three-finger swipe-down gesture for quick screenshots, it captures the entire screen, necessitating subsequent cropping. This new functionality streamlines the process, allowing users to select and share specific screen sections in just two steps.
Interestingly, Google recently addressed concerns about accidental activations of Circle to Search in a podcast featuring its developers. They acknowledged the issue and assured users of an impending fix. This indicates ongoing efforts to refine the feature for a smoother user experience.
Technology News
Discounted OnePlus Nord CE 3 price in India: Check it out!

The OnePlus Nord CE 3 has recently undergone another price reduction in India, marking a significant update for potential buyers. Initially introduced to the Indian market in June 2023, this smartphone received its first price adjustment in November of the same year. The base variant, featuring 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage, was notably listed at a price Rs. 2,000 lower than its launch price, signaling OnePlus’s commitment to providing competitive pricing to its customers.
The OnePlus Nord CE 3 is powered by an octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon chipset and ships with the Android 13-based operating system. It boasts a triple rear camera setup, enhancing its photography capabilities, and supports SuperVOOC charging, ensuring rapid replenishment of its battery. The inclusion of these features positions the Nord CE 3 as a compelling option for smartphone enthusiasts seeking a balance between performance, affordability, and innovation.
The recent unveiling of the OnePlus Nord CE 4 in India marks the continuation of OnePlus’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge technology to its users. Serving as the successor to the Nord CE 3, the Nord CE 4 is expected to build upon the strengths of its predecessor while introducing new enhancements and features to further elevate the user experience.
When considering the revised pricing of the OnePlus Nord CE 3, it’s evident that OnePlus aims to make its devices more accessible to a wider audience. The reduction in price, particularly on platforms like Amazon and the OnePlus India website, presents an opportunity for consumers to acquire a high-quality smartphone at a more affordable rate.
Let’s delve deeper into the specifications and features of the OnePlus Nord CE 3 to understand its capabilities and appeal to potential buyers.
OnePlus Nord CE 3 Price in India (Revised)
The base variant of the OnePlus Nord CE 3, featuring 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage, was initially launched in India at Rs. 26,999. Following its first price cut in November, the price was reduced to Rs. 24,999. Now, the same variant is available on Amazon at Rs. 22,990, representing a Rs. 2,009 reduction from its previous price. Furthermore, customers can benefit from an additional flat Rs. 2,000 instant discount on ICICI and HDFC Bank cards, bringing the effective price down to Rs. 20,990.
On the OnePlus India website, the 8GB + 128GB variant is priced at Rs. 22,999, marking a Rs. 2,000 decrease from the November price of Rs. 24,999. It is worth noting that this discount is exclusively applicable to the 128GB model, as the higher-end 256GB variant is currently listed as out of stock.
OnePlus Nord CE 3 Specifications and Features
Display:
The OnePlus Nord CE 3 boasts a 6.7-inch full-HD+ fluid AMOLED display with a resolution of 1,080 x 2,412 pixels. With a refresh rate of up to 120Hz, users can enjoy smooth and fluid visuals, enhancing their overall viewing experience.
Processor and Performance:
Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 782G SoC, the OnePlus Nord CE 3 delivers robust performance and efficient multitasking capabilities. With up to 12GB of RAM and up to 256GB of onboard storage, users can seamlessly navigate between apps and store their multimedia content with ease.
Operating System:
The smartphone ships with Android 13-based OxygenOS 13.1, providing users with a clean and intuitive user interface coupled with a plethora of customization options. OxygenOS is known for its smooth performance and timely software updates, ensuring that users stay up-to-date with the latest features and security patches.
Camera:
The OnePlus Nord CE 3 features a versatile camera setup, comprising a 50-megapixel primary sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS) and electronic image stabilization (EIS) support. Accompanying this primary sensor is an 8-megapixel sensor with an ultra-wide-angle lens and a 2-megapixel macro shooter, allowing users to capture a wide range of subjects with stunning detail and clarity. On the front, the device houses a 16-megapixel sensor for high-quality selfies and video calls.
Battery and Charging:
Equipped with a robust 5,000mAh battery, the OnePlus Nord CE 3 offers ample battery life to power through a full day of usage. Additionally, the device supports 80W wired SuperVOOC charging, enabling users to quickly replenish the battery and minimize downtime.
Connectivity:
The OnePlus Nord CE 3 supports a comprehensive range of connectivity options, including 5G, 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC, GPS, and USB Type-C. Whether it’s streaming multimedia content, browsing the web, or staying connected with friends and family, users can rely on the Nord CE 3 to deliver seamless connectivity and performance.
Security:
For enhanced security, the OnePlus Nord CE 3 features an in-display fingerprint sensor, allowing users to conveniently unlock their device with a simple touch. This biometric authentication method adds an extra layer of protection to safeguard sensitive data and personal information.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the OnePlus Nord CE 3 offers a compelling combination of performance, affordability, and innovation, making it an attractive choice for smartphone enthusiasts in India. With its recent price reduction and competitive specifications, the Nord CE 3 presents a compelling value proposition for consumers seeking a high-quality smartphone experience without breaking the bank. As OnePlus continues to innovate and introduce new features with each iteration, the Nord CE 3 stands as a testament to the company’s commitment to delivering exceptional devices tailored to the needs of its users.
Technology News
Namma Yatri launches cab service in Bengaluru

In its largest market, Bengaluru, ride-hailing company Namma Yatri has expanded its services to include cab-hailing, marking a significant shift from its previous focus on auto rickshaws. Namma Yatri, known for pioneering a daily subscription model as opposed to the commission-based model utilized by competitors like Ola and Uber, had initially concentrated on auto rickshaws in Bengaluru. However, it now features a distinct section on its app dedicated to booking cabs in the city. Additionally, Namma Yatri already provides cab rides in Kochi and Kolkata.
The decision to venture into cab services follows Namma Yatri’s separation from its former parent company, Justpay, and comes on the heels of a reported expansion plan announced on April 1st. The move also aligns with the broader trend observed in the industry, as both Ola and Uber have recently introduced subscription-based plans for auto-rickshaw drivers on their platforms. This strategic shift towards subscription-based models, akin to Namma Yatri’s approach, as well as that of Rapido, highlights a growing preference within the industry for alternative pricing structures beyond traditional booking fees or commissions.
-
Startup Stories1 year ago
Why Millennials, GenZs Are Riding The Investment Tech Wave In India
-
Startup Stories1 year ago
Startups That Caught Our Eyes In September 2023
-
Startup Stories1 year ago
How Raaho Is Using Tech To Transform India’s Fragmented Commercial Trucking
-
Startup Stories1 year ago
Meet The 10 Indian Startup Gems In The Indian Jewellery Industry’s Crown
-
Startup Stories1 year ago
WOW Skin Science’s Blueprint For Breaking Through In The $783 Bn BPC Segment
-
Crptocurrency11 months ago
Lither is Making Crypto Safe, Fun, and Profitable for Everyone!
-
Startup Stories1 year ago
How Volt Money Is Unlocking The Value Of Mutual Funds With Secured Lending
-
E-commerce1 year ago
Top Online Couponing Trends To Watch Out For In 2016