What is the difference between AFC and NFC? This question often arises when discussing mobile payment technologies. Both AFC (AFC: Advanced Flexible Card) and NFC (Near Field Communication) are contactless payment methods, but they have distinct features and applications. In this article, we will explore the differences between these two technologies and understand their roles in the world of mobile payments.
AFC, which stands for Advanced Flexible Card, is a contactless payment technology developed by the Japanese company Oki. It is primarily used in Japan and South Korea. AFC technology allows users to make payments by simply waving their smartcards or mobile devices over a compatible terminal. The communication between the card and the terminal is based on the ISO/IEC 14443 standard, which is the same standard used by contactless cards and NFC.
On the other hand, NFC, which stands for Near Field Communication, is a set of communication protocols that enable two electronic devices to establish communication by bringing them into close proximity (typically within 4 cm). NFC is a widely adopted technology used for various applications, including mobile payments, contactless cards, and electronic identification. NFC technology is based on the ISO/IEC 18092 standard and can be implemented in smartphones, smartcards, and other devices.
One of the key differences between AFC and NFC is the frequency range used for communication. AFC operates at 13.56 MHz, while NFC can operate at both 13.56 MHz and 2.4 GHz. This means that AFC is more limited in terms of communication range compared to NFC. However, the 13.56 MHz frequency range is widely used for contactless payment systems, which makes AFC suitable for this specific application.
Another difference lies in the security features. AFC utilizes a combination of physical and logical security measures to ensure secure transactions. The physical security is provided by the contactless card or mobile device itself, which contains a secure element. The logical security is implemented through the use of cryptographic algorithms to protect the communication between the card and the terminal. NFC, on the other hand, relies on the security features of the device (e.g., smartphone) used for the transaction. While NFC is generally considered secure, the security of the transaction depends on the device and the implementation of the cryptographic algorithms.
In terms of market adoption, AFC is predominantly used in Japan and South Korea, while NFC is more widespread globally. This is mainly due to the fact that NFC technology is supported by a wide range of devices, including smartphones, and has gained significant market traction in regions like Europe, North America, and Asia-Pacific.
In conclusion, the main differences between AFC and NFC lie in their frequency range, security features, and market adoption. AFC operates at 13.56 MHz and is primarily used in Japan and South Korea, while NFC operates at both 13.56 MHz and 2.4 GHz and is more widely adopted globally. Despite these differences, both technologies play a crucial role in the world of mobile payments, providing secure and convenient ways for users to make transactions.
