Pragmatic Semiconductor poised to revolutionise NFC connectivity with new superchips

It says NFC Connect redefines the parameters of NFC connectivity, unlocking seamless, item-level intelligence for mass-market products – traditionally constrained by cost, supply chain and sustainability challenges.

Powered by Pragmatic's unique FlexIC (flexible integrated circuit) technology, NFC Connect delivers industry-standard NFC endpoint capability in an ultra-thin, flexible form factor with a uniquely low carbon footprint. The company says that inlay manufacturers, label convertors and service bureaus can now empower brands to effortlessly integrate NFC functionality into products or packaging – even on curved surfaces – delivering smarter, more connected experiences and deeper levels of consumer engagement at scale.

CEO David Moore says: “Pragmatic's FlexIC technology sustainably bridges our physical and digital worlds to enable low carbon, low-cost edge and item-level intelligence at scale, where it simply wasn't possible previously.

“Our NFC Connect product line empowers sustainable customer innovation, enabling brands to unlock richer consumer experiences and drive deeper connections, from customer loyalty programs, product authentication and provenance, to facilitating improved reuse and recycling for a more circular economy.

“We see tremendous market demand in fast-moving consumer goods – such as food and beverage, apparel, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics – with applications rapidly extending to smart health and wellness devices, toys and games, and food freshness detection.”

James Davey, SVP Sales, Business Development and Product Management, for the company, added: “NFC Connect conforms with ISO15693 and NFC Forum Type 5 industry standards and is easily integrated into existing workflows, providing inlay, assembly and converter ecosystem partners with a unique opportunity to expand their product portfolios while addressing new market opportunities.

“With an industry-leading low carbon footprint and passively powered, it offers NFC-enabled iOS and Android smartphone compatibility, enabling use within existing reader infrastructure.

“It can be assembled onto single-sided NFC RFID antennas, giving our customers the ability to develop thinner, more cost-effective and more sustainable NFC solutions.”

Francisco Melo, President, Solutions Group at Avery Dennison – a global force in materials and digital identification solutions, and a strategic investor in Pragmatic, has hailed the innovation.

He says: “Innovation is the lifeblood of our industry. It is also key to realising item-level intelligence at scale and extending unique item-level ID to new segments, such as FMCG.

“It's exciting to see the launch of Pragmatic NFC Connect and to be part of this journey, I look forward to our continued strategic partnership enabling clients to pursue exciting new market opportunities.”