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Apple patent RFID tag reader for touchscreen gadgets – new tech for iPhone 5?

Apple has taken out an NFC patent for a “Touchscreen RFID Tag Reader” – a design which would allow the transfer of information between touch screen gadget and sensor panel circuitry. Is this a sign of the future for iPhone 5?

Radio Frequency Identification allows gadgets to sense and read chipped devices within range, without need of contact or line of sight, and lets mobile users send and receive information. RFID is currently used for a number of purposes from travel to retail and transactions through object recognition – imagine 21st century barcoding via WiFi.

Apple Insider revealed the diagrams of the patent – which you can view for yourself for a little bit more insight into the technical specifics behind the design on their website now.

It’s not the first time the concept of RFID has been spoken in the same sentence as the name iPhone 5. As far back as October it was suggested Apple was in contact with the chip-makers Gemalto – a union between the two companies would enabled Apple to utilise Near Field Communications in iOS devices and a rumoured e-wallet service would certainly benefit from this.

Roll on June 6 and the Worldwide Developers Conference where hopefully we’ll get some firm facts, but for the moment this little byte of Apple will keep the mill buzzing. Another day, another iPhone 5 rumour!

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