Samsung unveils TecTiles NFC stickers

Can be programmed to launch apps, send texts, share contacts, change settings and more with one tap.

The contactless NFC revolution always seems to be on the horizon while never quite arriving.

With this move, Samsung is attempting to speed up the switch by showcasing how the tech can do more than just payments, and can genuinely improve everyday phone tasks.

TecTiles are small square stickers that work in tandem with an app that can be found in the Google Play store.

Businesses can programme them to perform a specific function, and thereby give customers speedy access to convenient services. Users could, for example, tap to connect to wi-fi rather than input lengthy codes.

They can be programmed for any of the following functions on an NFC-enabled phone:

Change phone settings (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, ringer/media volume, screen brightness, etc.)
Launch an application
Join a Wi-Fi Network
Show a message
Make a call
Send a text message
Start a Google Talk conversation
Share a contact or business card
Show an address on a map
Open a web page
Foursquare or Facebook check-in
Automatic Facebook "Like"
Update Facebook status
Post a tweet or follow a contact on Twitter
Connect on LinkedIn

"With millions of NFC-enabled Samsung Galaxy smartphones currently in the market and the arrival of our flagship device Galaxy S III, Samsung saw an opportunity to expand the value of NFC beyond mobile payments," said Dale Sohn, president of Samsung Telecommunications America.

"The launch of Samsung TecTiles is another example of Samsung's ability to innovate new products and applications that improve the way we use our mobile devices for everyday tasks."

TecTiles are priced at $14.99 for a pack of five.

The initiative is part of a part of a big NFC summer for Samsung, which is also working with Visa to promote NFC payments during the London Olympics.

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