
To use NFC tags with your iPhone, you'll need to enable the feature in your settings. Go to Settings > NFC & Reader Mode.
NFC tags can be used for a variety of tasks, including automating tasks, sending messages, and even making phone calls. You can also use them to trigger specific actions on your iPhone.
To set up an NFC tag, you'll need to create a tag using an app like Tagstand or NFC Tools. This will allow you to customize the tag's behavior and assign it a specific function.
The iPhone supports a wide range of NFC tag types, including NDEF, iBeacon, and EPC. Each type of tag has its own unique features and uses.
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NFC Tag Requirements
To use NFC tags with your iPhone, you'll need to get an NFC tag that meets certain requirements. The iPhone will scan a wide variety of NFC tags, including NFC Forum Type 2 tags, such as NTAG, MIFARE, and ICODE series chips.
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The iPhone won't respond to tags without encoding, so make sure to encode your NFC tags with data, like a web address (URL), before using them.
You can purchase NFC tags in a 10-pack, like the Olixar 10-pack, which works great for iPhones and has an adhesive back for easy use.
Tag Requirements
You'll want to choose an NFC tag that's compatible with your iPhone, and the good news is that they're pretty versatile. The iPhone will scan a wide variety of NFC tags, including NFC Forum Type 2 tags.
To be safe, consider sticking with an NTAG-based tag, as they're widely supported. Your NFC tags need to be encoded with data, such as a web address (URL), before they will scan.
Blank tags won't do anything, so make sure to get ones that are already encoded or can be encoded later. The iPhone will not respond to tags without encoding.
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NFC Compatibility Matrix

The NFC Compatibility Matrix is a crucial tool for understanding which iPhone models support NFC features. The matrix shows that all iPhone models starting from the iPhone 6 Plus (2014) have some level of NFC compatibility.
The matrix assumes the latest version of iOS is running on the iPhone. You can check your iPhone's iOS version by going to Settings > General > Software Update.
Some iPhone models support reading and encoding NFC tags, while others only support reading. For example, the iPhone 6s Plus (2015) and iPhone 6s (2015) can only read NFC tags, but not encode them.
Here's a breakdown of the NFC capabilities of various iPhone models:
As you can see, the matrix shows that the iPhone 6 Plus (2014) does not support reading or encoding NFC tags, but it does support Apple Pay and Apple Wallet.
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In contrast, the iPhone 16 Pro (2024) supports reading and encoding NFC tags, as well as background NFC tag reading, 3rd party NFC apps, Apple Pay, Apple Wallet, and other features like AirTag, Shortcuts, App Clips, and NameDrop.
The matrix is a valuable resource for understanding the NFC capabilities of various iPhone models, and can help you choose the right iPhone for your needs.
NFC Tag Types
There are five types of NFC tags: Type 1, Type 2, Type 3, Type 4, and Type 5. Each type has varying degrees of memory capacity and speed, and can be either read-write or read-only.
Type 1 and Type 2 NFC tags are cost-effective and suitable for simple applications like posters and business cards. They have a small memory capacity of between 48 bytes to 2 kilobytes.
iPhones from iPhone 7 and later are compatible with NFC Type 1, 2, and 5 tags, but offer the best support for Type 2 tags.
The NTAG series, manufactured by NXP Semiconductors, is a popular choice for Type 2 NFC tags. They offer ample memory ranging from 144 bytes to 888 bytes for most practical applications.
Type 2 NFC tags, also known as NTAG series, are fully writable and readable by any NFC-enabled iPhone.
NFC Tag Encoding
You can encode NFC tags with a web address or other data, but the iPhone won't respond to blank tags.
The iPhone can read NFC tags that are encoded with NDEF data, which stands for 'NFC Data Exchange Format'. This is a universally recognized data structure.
To encode a tag, you have three options. The first is to have the web address encoded onto the tag when you purchase it.
If you buy a tag from a reputable seller like Seritag, they can encode it for you.
Alternatively, you can use an Android phone with a suitable app to encode the tag. The Seritag Encoder App is a good choice for this.
If you have an iPhone, you can download the Seritag Encoder App to encode your tags.
Tags need to be encoded with NDEF data to work with the iPhone.
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NFC Tag Usage
You can use NFC tags with your iPhone, but there are some requirements to keep in mind. The iPhone will scan a wide variety of NFC tags, including the popular NTAG series chips.
To make an NFC tag work, it needs to be encoded with data, such as a web address. You can't just buy a blank tag and expect it to work - it needs to have data encoded onto it.
The iPhone can read NFC tags, but only if they're properly encoded with NDEF data. This is a universally recognised data structure that the iPhone can understand.
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Get an NFC Tag
To use NFC tags with your iPhone, you'll first need to get an NFC tag. An NFC tag is a small sticker or chip that contains an NFC chip inside.
Olixar offers a 10-pack of NFC tags that work great for iPhones and have an adhesive back, making them easy to stick onto things for extra convenience.
Step 3: Scan
Scan your NFC tag by holding your phone's top area over it. The response should be quick, so if you're not getting any feedback, there's likely an issue.
You don't need to touch the tag, but you do need to be within a few centimetres of it. This is a precise distance, so be sure to get it just right.
Normal NFC tags won't work on metal surfaces, so if you're trying to scan from a metal table, it won't work. This is a common limitation to keep in mind.
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View Contents
After scanning an NFC tag, you'll be able to view its contents. This can be done by using an App, as text cannot be read natively on an iPhone.
The contents of the tag will include information such as the type of chip, what has been encoded, whether the NFC tag is locked or unlocked, and more.
You'll need to use an App to view the contents of the tag, as native iPhone functionality won't allow it.
The App will display the contents of the tag in a clear and organized manner, making it easy to understand what's been encoded on the tag.
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Here are the types of information you can expect to see when viewing the contents of an NFC tag:
Note that some NFC tags may not display all of this information, depending on the type of chip and encoding used.
Best Practices
To get the most out of NFC tags on your iPhone, it's essential to place them in a spot where they're easily accessible.
Make sure the tag is within a few inches of your iPhone to ensure a reliable connection.
You can use a keychain or a small clip to attach the tag to your backpack, wallet, or keys.
NFC tags can be reused multiple times without losing their functionality.
To use an NFC tag, simply tap it with your iPhone and follow the on-screen instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Apple Tag use NFC?
Yes, the Apple Tag uses Near Field Communication (NFC) to scan nearby devices, including Android phones. However, NFC capabilities are limited when it comes to pairing with the device or using advanced tracking features.
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