Stefano Coluccini, CAEN RFID: Series UHF RFID in Smartphones

As an Italian reader manufacturer, CAEN RFID is closely following the evolution of reading devices. The year 2025 could mark a period of significant change in this sector. Stefano Coluccini, General Manager at CAEN RFID, is fundamentally positive about these developments. With wider adoption, the acceptance of UHF technology could increase significantly.

UHF RFID Has the Potential to Replace NFC in Certain Applications

Technology Article | Interview

CAEN RFID · January 17, 2025 · 2 min
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What to expect

The integration of UHF (Ultra High Frequency) RFID technology into smartphones has the potential to revolutionize the adoption of this technology beyond its traditional B2B applications. Stefano Coluccini, General Manager at CAEN RFID, envisions 2025 as a pivotal year for advancements in reading devices, particularly with the broader adoption of UHF technology.

He highlights the transformative impact of embedding UHF capabilities in smartphones, noting the increased visibility and accessibility it would bring to end users.

1. What do you think about the potential of UHF in smartphones – is it the next big thing or are you more sceptical?

Stefano Culuccini: I am not sceptical. In fact, I believe that UHF technology in smartphones could be a game changer, as it would significantly increase the visibility of the technology to end users. Today, UHF is almost exclusively known in the B2B sector. Incorporating it into smartphones could significantly increase adoption, both in the B2B sector and among consumers.

2. What technological challenges must be overcome to successfully integrate UHF into smartphones?

Stefano Culuccini: As you know, modern smartphones are essentially based on a single chip that does everything, including all the wireless communication and NFC. RAIN (UHF RFID) technology cannot be an exception, so they cannot just add a reader chip from the market, but there has to be an agreement with a company that owns the IP to implement the technology directly inside the main chip.

The next challenge is to use the antenna that is used for the other communication also for the RFID, but this should not be a big problem because you should not expect long reading ranges with smartphones. A few centimeters will be enough to open up many consumer applications.

3. What is the added value of UHF in smartphones and which target groups or markets benefit most?

“First and foremost, retailers, retail logistics and the recycling industry will benefit the most from this development.”
Stefano Coluccini, CAEN RFID

Stefano Coluccini – General Manager, CAEN RFID

4. What end-user applications can you envision?

Stefano Culuccini: All consumer-oriented applications – such as those currently supported by NFC or QR codes – can benefit from UHF technology. These include consumer engagement, access to sustainability information, gamification with products, tracking of second-hand goods, brand protection, anti-counterfeiting and more.

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