NXP Semiconductors N.V. and security specialist Giesecke & Devrient (G&D) announced the full validation of a joint software solution offering secure interfaces between the handset, NFC functionality and secure elements such as the SIM card. This solution enables NFC to be integrated securely into mobile handsets based on the Android platform and other operating systems. In addition, the validated software will meet the needs of mobile network operators who are specifically demanding secure elements within the handset. The first Android handset supporting this enhanced functionality is expected to be launched during the second quarter of 2011.
The availability of an integrated secure NFC software solution within the NFC ecosystem represents a breakthrough for the future deployment of NFC-based services, which will offer consumers and the industry a vast array of mobile services, such as mobile payment and mobile ticketing. This solution is based on the integration of NXP’s NFC controllers in mobile handsets with G&D’s secure software solutions, as well as its expertise in securing transactions via the secure element. Security and ease of use are vital for broad consumer acceptance of NFC. Leading mobile handset OEMs have already included the solution into the platform design of their Android-based mobile handsets planned for deployment in 2011 and in 2012.
“Since NXP co-invented NFC, we’ve been working with a range of ecosystem partners to help further adoption of the technology,” said Henri Ardevol, Vice President and General Manager, secure transactions, NXP Semiconductors. “Our aim is to ensure that NFC is flexible enough to support the needs of the entire eco-system. Our collaboration with G&D and other key stakeholders provides our handset and mobile network partners the flexibility to incorporate NFC and the associated secure elements into their offerings in the most appropriate way, supporting their individual business needs.”
“As a leader in mobile security, Giesecke & Devrient has invested early in developing solutions for bringing secure access to SIM cards and other secure elements to Android platforms. In combination with our pioneering activities in secure NFC services, this has enabled us to offer complete solutions at a time when both the Android and NFC markets are booming,” explained Willem Bulthuis, Senior Vice President Global Marketing and Sales, mobile security, Giesecke & Devrient. “The NFC solution for mobile devices which we have now launched together with NXP is a key milestone in enabling mass roll-out of the NFC services ecosystem.”
Android is the fastest growing mobile operating system and the validation of G&D and NXP software will enable mobile network operators to capitalize on both the demand for Android-based phones and NFC technology by ensuring that all mobile transactions facilitated by the handset remain safe and secure.
The new software-based secure NFC solution provides full flexibility to support all modes provided by the NFC technology. These include reading and writing to NFC smart tags, peer-to-peer data sharing, mobile payments and access control. The code is open source and is designed to provide full flexibility for integration in multiple platforms and usage with solutions from different suppliers.
To learn more about NFC and the potential applications of the technology while at Mobile World Congress, visit booth 1F14 (Hall 1) to meet with NXP Semiconductors and booth 8B65 (Hall 8) to meet with Giesecke & Devrient.
