The SD Association allows NFC support for their SD Cards, allowing devices without native NFC to use the service fully secured through SWP.
For those who do not have NFC (Near Field Communication) in their phone, the SD Association has now developed an SD card that doubles as an NFC transceiver. The SD Association consists of the people behind the technical development and standards of all SD (Secure Digital) Cards. With recent advancements allowing SDHC (High Capacity) to achieve storage up to 32 GB, and SDXC (Extended Capacity) packing up to 2 TB of storage, the company now has developed the SD Smart, which acts as an NFC communication device for any phone or device into which you put it.
While Visa and Device Fidelity have already been using this system, the standardization now allows other companies to use the SWP (Single Wire Protocol) as a secure layer to transfer encrypted data through NFC systems, such as bank information or identity verification. While all this is heading to a future of the cardless wallet, we are not quite there yet, as this technology does not work well with phones that cannot accept SD card expansions, or that have metal housing that acts as a Faraday cage around the chips (blocking the wireless induction signal). Using SD cards has an advantage over developing SIM cards with NFC abilities, as SIM cards are inherently easy to crack, so would not be safe for personal information as such. If you are a fan of sci-fi and nostalgic PlayStation 1 sounds, have a look at the video provided by the association below, explaining the benefits of the card with pretty pictures.
Tom's Hardware is the leading destination for hardcore computer enthusiasts. We cover everything from processors to 3D printers, single-board computers, SSDs and high-end gaming rigs, empowering readers to make the most of the tech they love, keep up on the latest developments and buy the right gear. Our staff has more than 100 years of combined experience covering news, solving tech problems and reviewing components and systems.
"as this technology does not work well with phones that cannot accept SD card expansions, or that have metal housing that acts as a Faraday cage around the chips"
So that rules out iPhones, glad I have a Galaxy Nexus. It's outdated, but out of all phones available right now, still the best choice IMO.
