Future iPhone could have greater NFC range

Future iPhones could be equipped with a significantly extended NFC range. The NFC Forum has introduced the new "Release 15" (CR15) certification, which enables a greater reading distance of up to 20 millimeters. This technical adjustment could make unlocking doors, cars, or devices easier and more reliable in the future.

NFC, short for "Near Field Communication," has long been a standard feature of modern smartphones. The iPhone also uses the technology for numerous applications – from Apple Pay and hotel keys in wallets to smart home functions via HomeKit. Until now, the key disadvantage of NFC was that it only works over very short distances. Devices had to be held almost exactly next to each other to establish a connection. The new CR15 certification aims to change that. The goal: an improved user experience without compromising security.

Greater range with NFC Release 15

With Release 15 (CR15), the NFC Forum has expanded its specifications and simultaneously introduced a new certification program. Devices that meet this specification can achieve a range of up to 20 millimeters – previously, the limit was around 5 millimeters. This means that iPhones and other devices will need to be aligned less precisely to establish a connection.

According to the NFC Forum, this extension is intended to make using NFC more convenient overall. Especially in everyday life, when the iPhone is used to open a hotel room door, a car, or a front door, the greater distance can make a noticeable difference. Thanks to the increased range, the device responds reliably even when it's only close to the sensor.

Impact on future Apple devices

The change only affects future iPhone and Apple Watch models. Existing devices cannot take advantage of the increased range because they require customized NFC hardware. This makes it clear that only future generations of Apple products will benefit from CR15.

Like Google and other major technology companies, Apple is a member of the NFC Forum and was therefore likely involved in the development of the new specifications. It is considered highly likely that Apple will adopt the CR15 changes, as the company is known for quickly integrating new NFC features into its devices.

Devices supporting the enhanced NFC certification could come to market in the next cycle. According to the NFC Forum, the testing and certification process has already been completed.

NFC remains secure – despite greater range

Despite the technical expansion, NFC remains a technology for short distances. Even at 20 millimeters, the exchange range remains very limited, which still guarantees a high level of security. Compared to other wireless technologies such as Bluetooth or Ultra Wideband, the risk of unwanted access is significantly lower. Therefore, the new range does not create additional attack surfaces, but simply increases user convenience.

Benefits in everyday life

The extended NFC range can offer various advantages in everyday life. Doors connected to HomeKit or other smart home systems can be unlocked faster and more reliably. Waiting times and failed attempts could also be reduced when making contactless payments or accessing hotel room keys in the Wallet app.

More convenience for future iPhone generations

NFC Release 15 brings a technical innovation that could significantly simplify everyday use of iPhones and Apple Watches. The extended reading range of up to 20 millimeters makes NFC more flexible without losing its security advantages. While existing devices won't benefit, the adjustment should be a further step toward intuitive operation for future iPhone generations. Apple has repeatedly made small but crucial improvements to its hardware and user experience in recent years. The extended NFC range fits perfectly into this picture – it doesn't change anything fundamental, but it does make many everyday tasks easier and more reliable. (Image: Shutterstock / Gabo_Arts)