What is NFC & Web NFC API?
NFC (Near Field Communication) is a short-range, high-frequency wireless communication technology operating at 13.56 MHz, usually within a range of 4 cm.
The Web NFC API enables web applications to read and write to NFC tags (such as the NTAG series) directly through the browser without needing a native mobile app.
What are NDEF Messages & Records?
NDEF (NFC Data Exchange Format) is the standard data format specified by the NFC Forum. An NDEF Message contains one or more Records, such as URLs, plain text, vCard contacts, or Wi-Fi settings.
Common Chip Capacities & Identification
Choose the appropriate chip model based on your required data size:
- NTAG213: Usable capacity of 144B, ideal for single URL redirects, social media links, or shortcut triggers (e.g., car or bedside tags).
- NTAG215 / 216: Usable capacity of 504 / 888B, suitable for Amiibo cards, full vCard contacts, or multi-record data.
- Mifare Classic 1K: NDEF capacity of ~716B, commonly used in access control, student IDs, keyfobs, or legacy transit systems.
- Mifare Ultralight: Small capacity (48~142B), common in disposable event wristbands and paper tickets.
- Mifare DESFire: High AES encryption security with large memory (2k~8kB), widely used in transit cards and secure enterprise access.
- FeliCa: High-speed chip technology by Sony, widely used in Japan's Suica and Hong Kong's Octopus card.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Why can't iPhones (iOS) read or write NFC on the web?
Apple has not enabled Web NFC API access in iOS Safari. Currently, Web NFC is supported exclusively on Chrome browser on Android.
Q: How well supported is Mifare Classic 1K with Web NFC?
Mifare Classic uses NXP's proprietary encryption protocol, not the native Type 2 standard. While it can be formatted for ~716 Bytes NDEF storage, some Android devices or Web NFC APIs have limited compatibility. Standard NTAG21x chips are recommended.