STMicroelectronics announces micro unconnected modules with built-in boostedNFC technology

     STMicroelectronics introduces semiconductor technology for convenient and secure contactless transactions using the most popular fashion accessories such as wristbands, watches or jewelry. St's industry-leading ST53G system packaging solution integrates its market-leading Near Field communication (NFC) technology and secure transaction core in a single package.

     As consumers become more comfortable using smart devices for secure transactions, card vendors intend to enter the contactless wearable device market with payment, ticket sale and ban functions, but it is difficult to achieve these functions in wearable products with limited size and cost, because traditional contactless IC cards are composed of two independent devices, NFC RF chip and security chip. More space is needed and the design is complex. In addition, the small size of the wearable device determines that it can only use small antennas with limited communication performance.

     St's new ST53G system package overcomes these technical obstacles by integrating a miniaturized and enhanced NFC RF chip and a secure transaction chip in the same 4mmx4mm small module. St's market-leading boostedNFCTM technology enables small antenna wearables to provide a premium experience when communicating with card readers over normal non-touch communication distances.

     From fashion accessories to disposable products, such as wristbands given out to event attendees, the 2-in-1 module allows card vendors to quickly launch wearable devices with both functionality and design. St also offers a robust development ecosystem for this module, including RF tuning tools and predefined antenna configurations. The ST53G meets all relevant standards in the card industry, including the EMVCoTM compatibility standard, the ISO/IEC-14443NFC card emulation mode and the MIFARE Ticketing technical specification.

     The ST53G completes ST's system chip product line, Laurent Degauque, Marketing Director of the Bank's Application Security Microcontroller Product Division, which can run the instantly available STPay smart Card operating system and VISAMastercard/JCB certification pre-installed on the secure microcontroller, said: "From disposable devices to fashion accessories, by enabling secure transactions on wearable devices, Our new chip module gives consumers the opportunity to enjoy fast, easy and unobstructed card payment and ticket sale and check-in services. We are already working with our customers to develop new products based on ST53G and to support these market-friendly use cases."