Today, according to PatentlyApple, The US Patent & Trademark Office has publicized an incredible patent filed by Apple that deals with NFC.
Near field communication (or NFC for short) is described as a “set of standards” for smartphones and other, similar, “smart” devices to establish a special type of radio connection simply by being in close proximity or by touching one another.
Additional details from PatentlyApple:
Further, Apple’s invention runs deep and they envision NFC ready iDevices being able to control standalone cameras, projectors, in-home security systems, lawn sprinkler systems, your thermostat, garage door and more. One of these fine days, future iDevices will finally support NFC; and when they do – watch out, because Apple will open the floodgates and release a new generation of applications noted in this report and others like their forthcoming iWallet.
This specific patent extends beyond simple NFC payment applications that could be incorporated into an app such as the one to be included in iOS 6: Passbook. Between 2009 and 2010, Apple filed numerous patent applications that could enable future iPhone generations to control and communicate with a wide range of devices; everything from Macs and Apple TVs, to the simple electronic locking mechanisms in hotel rooms and car doors.
Does this mean Apple will include near field communication functionality in their upcoming sixth-generation iPhone? We’ll know soon enough and, until then, stay tuned for additional coverage on Apple and the iPhone.
