NFC stands for Near-Field Communication. It’s the wireless technology that powers Tap Cards, allowing a phone to connect just by holding it close.

You’ve probably used NFC before without even thinking about it. It’s the same technology behind contactless payments, hotel key cards, and transit passes. And because it’s now standard in smartphones, more than 2 billion phones worldwide are NFC-enabled.

NFC is designed for speed, simplicity, and intentional use. It only works when two devices are close together (just a few centimeters), so the interaction is secure and deliberate. That short range is exactly what makes it great for real-time moments.

How NFC Works

NFC doesn’t require an app, a download, or even power from the card itself.

Each card contains a small chip with a tiny antenna. It’s passive, meaning it doesn’t require a battery. When someone taps their phone to the card, the phone provides just enough energy to activate the chip and receive a short message that instantly opens a mobile-friendly page.

There are three types of NFC modes: 

1. Card Emulation – Used when your phone acts like a credit card or transit pass.
2. Peer-to-Peer Mode – Allows two devices (like phones) to exchange data - like Apple Air Drop. 
3. Reader/Writer Mode—your phone (the reader) communicates with a passive tag (the card) to retrieve a small piece of data - like a URL.

VisitorTap Cards only use Reader/Writer Mode, so the phone pulls information from the card and the card can never pull information from the phone. 

NFC Is a Trusted Technology

One of the reasons NFC is trusted in payment systems and access control is because it’s inherently secure. Its short range means interactions only happen when devices are intentionally close together, reducing the risk of accidental scans or interference.

NFC doesn’t broadcast data. The chip only responds when it’s within range of a compatible device. And because Tap Cards are passive and don’t store personal information, there’s no risk of data being tracked or shared.

NFC is Simple

• Does not require Bluetooth or Wi-Fi to be enabled: NFC products do not require pairing, passwords, or a wireless signal. It works through proximity (just a tap) and it’s done. Note: the phone will need cell service or wifi in order to get the link to load. 
• Simpler than a QR Code: There’s no need to open a camera or make sure to get the image all lined up before it disappears. Also, NFC is easy to change through the VisitorTap dashboard. No need to print new QR codes every time your link changes. 
• Not an app-based tool: Most modern smartphones support NFC out of the box. There’s nothing to download, install, or configure for it to work.

Android vs. Apple

Modern smartphones support NFC, but not all phones place the NFC chip in the same spot.

• On iPhones, the NFC chip is located at the top of the phone
• On Android devices, it’s usually located in the middle or bottom of the phone.

So if a tap doesn’t work right away, try adjusting where you hold the phone against the Tap Card — moving it slightly up or down can often do the trick.

If NFC is not working on Android 

Many Android phones come with NFC already activated, but in some cases, you may need to activate it manually. How to turn NFC on: 

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap on “Connections” or “Connected Devices”.
3. Find “NFC” and turn it on.

‍

Want to see how VisitorTap can work for your church?

Discover how VisitorTap can help your church create meaningful moments and build real connections with a single tap. From first-time visitors to faithful volunteers, it’s never been easier to help people take their next step. Learn more today. 

‍