In the fast-evolving world of access control, a UK-based company specializing in research and system integration has released a report highlighting the major trends shaping the global access control market in 2013. Among these, Near Field Communication (NFC) technology—derived from RFID—has emerged as a key focus. As smart devices become more integrated with security systems, NFC is playing an increasingly important role in access control.
According to data from Evans Data, 45% of application developers plan to adopt NFC technology in the coming year. While the Apple iPhone 5 did not include NFC, companies like BlackBerry and Samsung have already embraced it. Currently, 31% of developers have incorporated NFC into their products, with another 45% expected to follow in the near future. This growing adoption suggests that NFC is no longer just a novelty—it's becoming a standard feature in mobile security solutions.
Evans Garvin, CEO of Evans, emphasized that NFC represents a major leap in mobile computing. "It will change how we interact with our daily lives—whether unlocking doors, boarding flights, or making purchases," he said. Developers are also exploring new applications beyond security, such as gaming, measurement tools, and vehicle connectivity. The potential for NFC is vast, and its future looks even brighter.
Access control systems have evolved significantly over the past two decades. No longer limited to simple key management, modern systems now offer comprehensive access management through computerized controls. These systems can determine who gains entry, when, and where, while also triggering alarms and recording access data. This enhances both security and operational efficiency in workplaces.
Looking ahead, access control is moving toward virtualization and mobility. NFC is particularly well-suited for this shift. As a short-range wireless communication standard, NFC allows secure data exchange between devices within a few centimeters. It also aligns with ISO standards for contactless smart cards, making it a reliable platform for access control.
With NFC-enabled smartphones, users can carry digital ID cards that function like traditional keys. By simply holding the phone near a reader, they can gain access without the need for physical cards. According to IHS iSuppli, by 2015, over 550 million NFC-enabled phones were expected to be shipped worldwide.
The simplest form of NFC-based access involves replicating current card systems. A smartphone transmits identity information to a reader, which then communicates with the existing access control system to unlock the door. This method eliminates the need for physical keys or cards, reduces the risk of duplication, and allows for quick revocation if a device is lost or stolen.
HID Global’s iCLASS SIO technology is one of the first platforms to introduce SecureIdentityObjects (SIOs), enabling secure credential management across various devices. Virtual credentials can be embedded in NFC smartphones or SmartMX cards, allowing access control to extend beyond traditional methods. This means that, soon, you might open a door using just your phone—no keys, no cards, just a simple tap.
Smartphones today are powerful enough to handle many tasks that once required dedicated readers or servers. NFC phones can verify personal information, check access rules, and send encrypted messages to locks or door controllers. This reduces the need for expensive hardware and simplifies the overall system.
Moreover, NFC smartphones can store access rules locally and communicate with low-cost, standalone readers. This makes it possible to implement secure access systems for interior doors, filing cabinets, and storage units—especially those containing sensitive or valuable items.
Beyond cost savings, virtual credentials also enhance security. Losing a phone with a virtual credential is less risky than losing a physical card. Plus, security settings can be updated quickly and remotely. In traditional scenarios, such as entering government buildings or using ATMs, two-factor authentication is common. With NFC, multi-factor authentication becomes easier to manage in real time, such as requiring a PIN code before granting access.
As NFC continues to evolve, its impact on access control will only grow. From securing buildings to managing sensitive data, this technology is paving the way for a more connected and secure future.
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