3 Core NFC
While Core NFC has been a rather glossed-over part of the iOS 11 upgrades, it could potentially be a major boost to Apple’s mobile operating system. Perhaps signalling an end to some of Apple’s software restrictions, the new framework will allow developers to create apps that can read NFC tags. Historically, the company has previously maintained pretty tight control over the tech. And although useful for tap-and-go payments, NFC tech has a wide range of additional uses.
For example, developers could create apps that give a user additional product information and added security via NFC tags — letting them know if a product is authentic, or whether it’s been opened or tampered with. Core NFC also lays the groundwork for a wide range of ways to automate certain tasks, as well as further options for a user to interact with his or her environment. That latter ability was hinted at during WWDC, when Apple announced that watchOS would be able to interface with various gym equipment to sync workout data.