NXP and FeliCa Networks launch NFC RF controllers

     NXP Semiconductors and FeliCa Networks announced that they will work closely to ensure that NXP's NFC family of RF controller solutions are interoperable with Japan's FeliCa™ (NFC-F) standard infrastructure. With NXP's single-chip NFC RF controller, device manufacturers will be able to design and produce handsets that are truly interoperable with global infrastructure.

     NXP and FeliCa Networks plan to integrate FeliCa Networks' technology into NXP's world-leading NFC RF controllers to expand their capabilities. Interoperable with Japan's FeliCa™ (NFC-F) standard reader infrastructure and Osaifu-Keitai® phones. NXP's unique solution supports application services around the world. It is reported that the first NFC RF controller will be available in 2013.

     Jeff Miles, Vice President of Mobile Trading at NXP Semiconductors, said: "Since NXP and our partners invented NFC technology in 2002, we have been working to advance the mobile trading ecosystem and bring NFC technology to the world. With the increasing demand for global interoperable technology from leading Oems, NXP worked closely with FeliCa Networks to develop this fully functional NFC solution. It applies to all deployed infrastructure, including the FeliCa™ ecosystem and the MIFARE contactless infrastructure already in widespread use worldwide."

     Hirotaka Sugiyama, President of FeliCa Networks, said: "The collaboration with NXP is the foundation for the successful adoption of NFC mobile phones worldwide. The results of our collaboration greatly reduce the pressure on device manufacturers to develop NFC mobile devices for global applications, bringing greater convenience to consumers in Japan and around the world. Building on eight years of knowledge and experience in contactless mobility, we offer a full-featured NFC solution."

     NFC is a market-tested, standardized technology introduced by NXP and SONY in 2002. NXP is at the heart of this ecosystem, working with nearly all major handset manufacturers, mobile operating system providers and application developers to drive this technology forward. With its leadership in contactless and security technologies, NXP, the number one supplier in the global intelligent identification market, offers a complete mobile transaction solution that includes: NFC controllers, various security components, NFC tags and infrastructure reader ics. Currently, more than 130 mobile devices from major Oems use NXP NFC technology. More than 650 urban transportation systems around the world have chosen MIFARE™ technology.

     FeliCa Networks has always provided reliable technology and integrated solutions for the world's largest NFC service platform. In 2011, approximately 70 million wireless customers used mobile phones with FeliCa™ solutions installed with this technology and contactless IC chips. As of January 2012, the total number of smartphones using this technology exceeded 10 million. Currently, the service platform offers more than 100 services, including mobile payments, public transportation and other advanced services.