iPhone turns RFID reader

Wireless Dynamics has rolled out iCarte 110, a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader that turns the iPhone into a near field communications (NFC) device, reports Info Sync World.

iCarte enables iPhone users to make fast and secure contactless payments and exchanging information with other NFC-enabled phones.

RFID tag information can be read and written by the iCarte and communicated in real-time to enterprise databases through the iPhone's WiFi or 3G connections.

NanoMarkets, a US-based analyst firm, predicts revenues for silver inks and pastes used in RFID devices will reach $3.6 billion in 2016, states Yacht Charters Magazine.

The research firm claims that rapid increase in silver prices will have real consequences for lower end items, including RFID tags.

NanoMarkets expects cost pressures will give nanosilver ink makers a chance to establish their product lines as a credible alternative to more traditional silver ink offerings.

Rhode Island governor Donald Carcieri has slammed a US bill that would have banned tracking public school students by tagging their backpacks with RFID chips, says RFID News.

Carcieri claims the tags could help save lives in events such as natural disasters and terrorist attacks, as well as keeping track of students on routine field trips.

Supporters of the bill are calling the technology “big brother,” and argue that the tags could provide information to the wrong people.