I gave my Samsung phone superpowers with a $6 pack of NFC tags — here’s how
Cheap NFC tags and Samsung Routines do more than you think.
NFC, a smartphone feature often overlooked, can be utilized for simple tasks to streamline daily routines. A few months ago, the author purchased NFC tags for an Android Auto automation project, leaving them with spare chips that found new purpose. By using these tags with Samsung’s Modes and Routines app, powered by the Routines+ Good Lock module, and some creativity, the author created NFC-powered routines to simplify various tasks in their life.
The prerequisites for this project include spare NFC tags and a Samsung phone. NFC tags are inexpensive, costing just $6 for a pack of 10 or around $9 for 50 in the US. While other Android devices can use NFC, Modes and Routines enhance the function, allowing for a series of sequential tasks triggered by NFC tags.
Some routines created include a morning alarm system using NFC Alarm Clock, which forces the user to scan a specific NFC tag to stop the alarm. Upon tapping the tag, the routine adjusts display brightness, activates Eye comfort shield, and opens Google Calendar and Google Keep. The user reviews their schedule and plans the day, then loads Kagi News for updates.
Other routines include a desk setup routine for optimized battery life, eye health, and minimal friction, as well as a routine for outdoor walks with podcast playback and item reminders.
To create these routines, the author uses the Modes and Routines app on their Samsung phone, customizing NFC tags for easy identification. Users can place the tags in various locations, such as near the coffee machine, front door, or bedside table, depending on the routine.
Written by urgent.news from Android Authority's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — it may contain errors, so check the original before relying on it.
