Near Field Communications: Features and Considerations

Abstract

The increased availability of wireless technologies to transfer data and information between mobile devices is changing the service expectations of medical library customers. In response, medical librarians have investigated and implemented a variety of services that utilize the emerging wireless technologies being built into each generation of mobile devices. One such wireless technology now available on many smartphones is Near Field Communication. This column provides an overview of wireless technologies, describes the basic features of the near field communications, and discusses considerations to help guide libraries in developing their mobile strategies.

KEYWORDS:

• Android
• applications
• BlackBerry
• iPad
• iPhone
• mobile devices
• near field communication
• NFC
• smartphone software development

Notes

Comments and suggestions should be sent to the Column Editor: Nancy R. Glassman ([email protected]).