Over the years of improving mobile devices, the list of supported wireless technologies in modern smartphones has expanded, and today many devices can provide wireless pairing, including via NFC. Although short-range wireless transmission technology has become very popular, the NFC module is not yet available in every phone. Happy owners of devices that support the standard can pay using a smartphone, provided that the terminal also supports this feature. But what should those users do who do not have the most advanced smartphone? We will talk about how to pay for purchases with a phone without NFC and equip a mobile device with a module.
The history of NFC in phones
Technology such as NFC dates back to 1983. Then it was used to record the necessary data using radio signals. But the modern system appeared only in 2004. Three companies - Sony, Nokia and Philips created the “NFC forum”, which made it possible to transfer some information just by touching the devices. Over the years, Near field communication technology has improved.
In 2006, “NFS tags” were created, and in 2007 such a tag was inserted into the Nokia 6131 phone. In 2009, the NFC forum created the Peer-to-Peer standard, which allows smartphones using NFS to exchange contacts and links with each other, and initialize Bluetooth and so on. Nowadays this technology is present in almost every mobile device and is used for various purposes.
Solving the problem with the lack of NFC
Does Android Pay work without NFC? This is a fairly common question. It is caused by periodic problems with technology.
The data transfer function works:
- at a distance of up to 10 centimeters;
- on mobile platforms;
- does not require power.
To quickly solve the problem, manufacturers have developed two effective methods that allow transmitting a signal even on equipment that does not support NFS.
Note! You can only pay using cash register equipment that supports Pay technology.
It will not be possible to pay for goods on conventional modular devices without radio communication.
Method 1. Purchasing a SIM card
Is it possible to use Android Pay without NFC? The answer is yes. Mobile operators have developed special SIM cards containing a built-in transmitter for signal conversion.
To start using the function, you need to complete the following steps:
- Visit a cell phone store.
- Buy a SIM card that supports Pay.
- Install it into the slot tray on the phone.
After this, the chip will become active.
When paying, it is worth considering that the dimensions of the GSM signal module vary depending on the format on specific equipment.
Method 2. Purchase and installation of an external module
You can also pay for purchases without a built-in NFS module using an external device. It is easy to use such equipment.
Advantages and disadvantages
NFC has more advantages than disadvantages.
The main advantages are:
- Fast connection between two devices . When transferring files via Bluetooth, for example, it takes time to connect one gadget to another. When using NFS this happens almost instantly.
- The range is very small , which prevents fraudsters from intercepting personal information or funds.
- Very small chip size . It can fit into any device due to its small size, which is why NFC tags are used everywhere.
- Low cost . This chip is quite cheap, which allows you to purchase it without paying a lot of money.
There are very few disadvantages of Near field communication, and the most important is the low transmission speed.
What is NFC and what capabilities does it have?
Today, to pay for goods in a store, you don’t even have to take out a card, let alone cash. Instead, you just need to bring your smartphone to the terminal, of course, if it is equipped with NFC.
The latter is a built-in chip for contactless payment, to which you can link an infinite number of bank cards . Before purchasing a smartphone, the owner can independently choose from which account the funds will be debited before paying for the product.
This is done in literally a couple of clicks, and to confirm the payment you are asked for a password, which is entered directly on the phone itself. At the same time, the range of action of the contactless module does not exceed 10 cm, and if you do not go beyond it, the chip provides instant connection. The devices synchronize with a difference of a couple of seconds.
Important! The terminal must support contactless payment type. Otherwise, the payment will not go through.
Types and design of external NFC tags
NFC tags
NFS tags can be embedded in clothing, keychains, cases, and so on.
They are flat microchips with passive magnetic induction. Such tags are used for non-cash payments, transmission and receipt of information and data.
Advantages:
- affordable, low price;
- availability of different designs and colors;
- It is possible to manage the settings of paired devices and your phone.
Flaws:
- NFC function is passive;
- it is not possible to use one label for several functions;
- Memory capacity is very limited.
To insert such a tag into your phone you need to:
- Order from the Internet or buy tags in a hardware store.
- Attach it to the device body.
- Install a service that allows you to manage NFC.
- Create a task for the tag.
- Check if the installed system is working.
IMPORTANT! It is worth checking that the tag is compatible with the device for which it is purchased.
SIM cards with NFC support
If the SIM card supports NFC, then you can use it to make payments, transfer and receive money to other devices.
Advantages:
- ease of use and installation;
- The NFS function is active.
Flaws:
- Most likely you will need to change your phone number;
- you need to link a new bank account;
- There is no additional identification when paying.
To install such a SIM card you need:
- Contact the mobile operator you use;
- Place an order to exchange the card for a new one, which will include a contactless option;
- Ask your technician how to insert the card correctly;
- Insert the card according to the wizard’s instructions;
- Link a bank card to the SIM card;
- Check the card operation using contactless payment.
NFC antennas
NFS antennas are a flat module that consists of two elements. These elements are interconnected and consist of a chip module and an external antenna. Installed under the phone cover.
IMPORTANT! The antenna will not fit a device with a side slot.
An external antenna is needed in order to exchange data and payment transactions, and manage some gadget settings.
Advantages:
- there is additional fastener;
- full cycle of data exchange;
- NFC function is active.
Flaws:
- few mobile operators produce these antennas;
- not suitable for mobile devices without a removable back cover;
- electricity consumption is exceeded.
Installation of an external antenna takes longer than with tags and SIM cards. First you need to remove the back cover, pull out the SIM and remove the protective film from the surface of the antenna.
Next, you need to attach the antenna chip to the SIM card and install the card in place along with the chip, and close the battery at the top. The antenna unit should remain outside and the antenna should be placed on top of the battery. Now you can close the lid and use it for its intended purpose.
IMPORTANT! For the external antenna to work properly, you will need to install a mobile application in which the required bank card is registered.
Is it possible to pay via Google Pay?
There is no need to change your SIM card before paying through such a mobile application. To configure the service, it is launched, after which:
- the card is checked for suitability for use, for which a service website is used, which indicates the bank and payment system;
- a payment method is added, a card is defined;
- the necessary information about the card is entered;
- binding is carried out in conjunction with the selected protection option;
- The action is confirmed and an electronic version of the signature is entered.
How to install NFC in a smartphone if it does not exist?
In order to install near field communication in a mobile device, you must:
- Check if your device supports NFC. You can find out this in the gadget settings.
- Decide on the module type. This could be a tag, an antenna, or a SIM card, as mentioned earlier.
- Carefully read the installation instructions for the selected module.
- Test how the built-in module works and functions.
Where to apply?
How and where is the NFS chip used? First of all, it is used when scanning and programming tags, automating various household actions in order to save the consumer’s free time. Tags are integrated into terminals, metro turnstiles, smart cards, bracelets, key fobs, etc. The function is convenient for everyday use. The tag automatically sets various commands to the mobile device related to:
- sending SMS notifications;
- turning on silent operating mode;
- activating the alarm;
- Wi-Fi or GPS connection;
- launching an audio player, etc.
Before performing any of the operations, there is no need to study the mobile phone menu to find the required function. The main thing is that the tag is programmed in advance.
Data exchange via NFC
There are some rules when transferring data using NFC:
- Both devices must not be turned off or in sleep mode.
- Both gadgets must have the near field communication function and the Android Beam option enabled.
- In order to transfer data, you need to bring two gadgets close to each other and wait for a sound signal, which means that the devices have detected each other.
- The phones must not be disconnected until the second beep sounds, indicating that the operation is complete.
IMPORTANT! Before you start using the module and transferring data, you should activate NFC and make sure that it works properly
Types of external NFS modules
Even if you do not own a modern smartphone from recent years, NFS capabilities may be available. To do this, you will need to install an additional external module in one of the options. The location can be organized inside the phone structure or on its body.
There are two main groups of remote NFC modules: active and passive. The first ones work in two-way mode and use Wi-fi or Bluetooth channels. The latter are less functional and do not store or record user data.
The remote unit can be purchased as part of the following elements:
- SIM card. Externally, it does not differ from less functional analogues. It is also issued free of charge in mobile operator stores. They are suitable for contactless payments and transfers.
- Special label. This is a separate adapter in the form of a disk with rounded corners. It needs to be attached to the back of the smartphone. The element is flat and almost imperceptible under the cover. They can only provide a passive function and require the installation of additional software.
- Separate antenna. This is an option for gadgets with a replaceable battery, since part of the structure must be located under the body. The module provides extended functionality to the owner. One of the disadvantages of this method is the presence of a remote element, which affects ergonomics. Also, the antenna has energy consumption, which takes away from the gadget’s power supply, and, therefore, it will work less autonomously.
Installing an NFC module does not require special skills and knowledge and can be done by any average user. Remote elements are compatible with both phones and tablet computers.
Checking the device for NFC
Would you like to try the technology in practice, but don’t know if this is possible on your device? Let's check.
To do this, carefully open the back cover of the smartphone or tablet, in a situation where it can be moved away without damage, and inspect the gadget’s battery.
When NFC development is present, you will see this abbreviation there. If the cover of the phone/tablet is not removable, the corresponding icon or abbreviation will be located on the outside.
If for some reason you do not want or cannot remove the cover, you can make sure that this method of communication is available in the device settings.
Find the “Wireless Networks” tab, then “More...” and if NFC is available on the device, then there will definitely be a corresponding item there.
Does Android Pay work without NFC?
With the introduction of a modern module for convenient contactless payment using a mobile phone, as well as a contactless bank card, many questions arose regarding its use. On the one hand, the implementation of the method is only possible if NFC is available from the factory, on the other hand, there are third-party methods for bypassing this rule.
System requirements
First of all, it is worth considering that payment can be made subject to certain conditions relating to the device used. They may differ depending on the region in which you live and the features of the banking system, but in general they are the same.
- Supported processor frequency from 1 GHz ( recommended );
- Removable cover of the device for access to trays with mobile operator cards;
- Sufficient amount of free internal memory of the device ( from 100 megabytes );
- Supports Internet connection and Wi-Fi data transfer technology;
- Android operating system version 4 and higher.
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