1. Compatibility by Operating System
For iPhone (Apple) users
All recent iPhones are equipped with NFC, but their behaviour varies depending on the generation:
- iPhone XS, XR, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 (and Pro/Max models): Native and automatic compatibility. Simply hold the card close to the device; no settings are required.
- iPhone 7, 8 and X: NFC is present but the system does not scan for cards in the background. You must open the Control Centre and manually activate the “NFC Tag Reader” button.
- Important note: The NFC antenna on iPhones is always located at the very top of the device, near the rear camera sensor.
For Android users (Samsung, Xiaomi, Google Pixel, Huawei, etc.)
Almost all Android smartphones have NFC, but it must be enabled manually.
- Pull down the notification bar (swipe down).
- Look for the NFC icon and make sure it is enabled (shown in blue).
- Alternative: Go to Settings > Connections (or Connected devices) > NFC and tick “Enable”.
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2. The trick: Positioning the card correctly
Each manufacturer places the NFC antenna in a different location. If you don’t tap in the right spot, the smartphone won’t detect anything.
| Brand | Position of the NFC antenna on the phone |
| :--- | :--- |
| Apple (iPhone) | Right at the top of the device (top edge). |
| Samsung | Usually in the exact centre of the back panel. |
| Google Pixel | In the upper half, just below the camera bar. |
| Xiaomi / Redmi | Often in the upper half, near the camera module. |
💡 Handling tip: Do not ‘stick’ the card in with a sudden movement. Move it slowly towards the relevant area and hold it still for 1 to 2 seconds.
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3. Checklist if the card is blocked (Troubleshooting)
If a smartphone still refuses to read the card, check these 4 key points:
- Case thickness: Very thick cases, military-grade cases, or cases containing metal components (such as magnets for car mounts or built-in card holders) block NFC signals. Try without the case.
- The screen must be on: For security reasons (particularly to prevent hacking), most Android and iOS smartphones disable the NFC reader when the screen is off or the phone is locked.
- Power-saving mode: On some models (particularly Samsung and Xiaomi), ‘Ultra Power Saving’ mode automatically disables NFC to conserve battery life.
- Card interference: Make sure there are no other bank cards or travel cards near the phone when scanning.