Which phones can read an NFC card?

Most smartphones sold in the last few years can read an NFC card. Whether a tap works first time depends on the phone and one or two settings.

iPhone

• iPhone XS and newer read NFC cards automatically. The screen just needs to be on; there’s no setting to switch on. It won’t read a card while the Camera or Wallet app is open.
• Older iPhones (iPhone 7 to iPhone X) can read NFC cards using the NFC Tag Reader in Control Centre, if they have iOS 14 or later.
• iPhones older than the iPhone 7 can’t read NFC cards.

Android

• Most Android phones have NFC, but it must be switched on in the phone’s settings. On many phones it’s on already, because it’s also used for contactless payments.
• Some budget Android phones don’t have NFC at all.
• The screen needs to be on and unlocked.

See Turn on NFC on an iPhone or Android phone.

Where to tap

The NFC reader isn’t in the same place on every phone:

• iPhone: near the top edge of the back of the phone.
• Android: usually in the middle of the back of the phone.

Hold the card flat against that spot for a second or two. Thick or metal phone covers can block NFC.

If a phone can’t read your card

You can always share your card another way:

• Show your QR code. Almost every smartphone camera can scan it. See Show your QR code.
• Send your card link by WhatsApp, email or text. See Share your card link.