RFID Privacy Happenings reports that Nokia introduced a mobile phone handset with an embedded RFID reader at the CeBIT show in Hanover, Germany. At the same time, Nokia announced they were joining the Near Field Communications (NFC) effort currently headed by Philips Semiconductors and Sony.
Conceptually, empowering consumers with their own handheld readers counterbalance some privacy concerns related to RFID. Presumably consumers could use the reader to detect tags present and act accordingly.
Practically, the Nokia handset technology and NFC don't really factor into this equation. NFC uses VHF RFID operating at 13.56 mHz based on Philips Mifare platform and ISO 14443a. This flavor of RFID has no compatibility with the ePC-based RFID contemplated by Wal-Mart and the other former Auto ID Center members. Also, this RFID has a very short read range - less than one meter. That changes the way it will be used.
NFC and the Nokia handset could be used in the near future with access control systems, toll collection and public transport fare collection. Many of these systems use VHF and Mifare. With RFID in a telephone handset, consumers could pay for such services instantly using online payment accounts and wallets not found in smart cards or disposable tickets. Visa International demonstrated this capability at CES earlier this year. |
