Nokia’s upcoming 6212 Classic handset was press-released yesterday and while the overall specs might not knock you out of your seat, the presence of Near Field Communication (NFC) couldn’t be more exciting. With a Q3 release, the 6212 won’t be the first NFC-equipped device but it will likely be the first to be widely marketed by a top company. What is NFC? The press release illustrates usage cases well:
Near Field Communication is designed for intuitive, simple and safe interaction between electronic devices. By tapping an NFC-enabled tag, consumers can receive new content such as weblinks, audio files or contact data directly to their phone. They can activate a profile in their handset or open applications such as FM radio or web browser. Photos and videos can be easily shared by tapping another NFC-capable phone and pairing with a Bluetooth NFC-enabled device, like the new NFC variant of the Nokia BH-210 headset, happens with just one touch.
Of course the applications of NFC are essentially limitless. Mobile handset-invoked payment remittance for example, would be infinitely more secure as compared to current methods. In fact the technology is so exciting that perhaps it will spark some advancement here in the US where we are lagging at best with like technology. I’d love to be able to tap my handset against an ATM to withdraw cash from my checking account or tap it against a gas pump to fund my fuel purchase.
Back to the now however, we can expect to see light uses come into play as 2008 fades into 2009. Parrot for one, has just today announced a pair of NFC-equipped portable speakers that will be available for around $150 this summer. If the 6212 Classic was being issued with AT&T-compatible UMTS I’d likely snag both of the aforementioned toys. Alas…