NXP Semiconductors N.V. and UPM RFID, a manufacturer and designer of passive HF and UHF radio frequency identification tags and inlays, collaborate to provide easier access to near field communication (NFC) tags for use in a variety of mobile applications. NXP will provide the NFC ICs and UPM RFID will design and manufacture the NFC tags and inlays. Data can be easily written to and stored in these tags, which are used in a variety of applications such as peer-to-peer data exchange (e.g. business cards), location-based advertisements, loyalty programs and discount coupons. “UPM is focused on exploring new technologies and applications for tags and inlays. Our collaboration with NXP to roll out high-volume NFC tags is to better support growing demand for easy access NFC tags. We’re also creating a global network of partners who provide web-based online printing services for customized NFC tags. Ordering NFC tags will soon be as easy as ordering any other office supplies via the web”, said Marcus Vaenerberg, Senior Vice President of UPM RFID. [www.nxp.com] [www.upmrfid.com]