Samsung has announced a new accessory for their Galaxy range of smartphones, called TecTiles, which are a range of programmable NFC tags that can be used in conjunction with any of Samsung’s NFC-enabled Galaxy devices.
The Samsung TecTiles come with an Android app that can be used to program different functions into each tile, and the TecTiles can be used for launching apps, sending text messages, sharing information, changing phone settings, and much more.
“With millions of NFC-enabled Samsung Galaxy smartphones currently in the market and the arrival of our flagship device Galaxy S® III, Samsung saw an opportunity to expand the value of NFC beyond mobile payments,” said Dale Sohn, president of Samsung Telecommunications America, the No. 1 mobile phone provider in the U.S. and worldwide[1]. “The launch of Samsung TecTiles is another example of Samsung’s ability to innovate new products and applications that improve the way we use our mobile devices for everyday tasks.
How Samsung TecTiles Work
Samsung TecTiles are small stickers embedded with NFC (Near Field Communication) technology. When an NFC-enabled device, such as a Samsung Galaxy smartphone, comes into close proximity with a TecTile, it can read the data stored on the tag and perform the programmed action. The accompanying Android app allows users to easily program these actions, making the TecTiles highly versatile. For instance, you can program a TecTile to automatically connect your phone to a Wi-Fi network, set your phone to silent mode when you enter a meeting room, or even send a pre-written text message to a specific contact.
Practical Applications and Benefits
The practical applications of Samsung TecTiles are vast and varied. For businesses, TecTiles can be used to provide customers with quick access to information or services. For example, a TecTile placed at the entrance of a store could provide customers with a link to the store’s website or a special promotional offer. In a corporate setting, TecTiles can be used to streamline operations. Employees can use TecTiles to quickly log into secure areas, access specific applications, or share contact information with colleagues.
For personal use, TecTiles can simplify daily routines. Imagine placing a TecTile on your nightstand that sets your alarm, dims your phone’s screen, and turns off notifications when you tap your phone on it before going to bed. Or, place a TecTile in your car that launches your favorite navigation app and turns on Bluetooth for hands-free calling.
Samsung will sell the TecTiles in a pack of five programmable NFC tags, and the pack will retail for $14.99. You can find out more information over at Samsung.
Source Engadget
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