It's a small revolution in the world of digital product passports (DPP)
A tiny RISC-V chip with NFC technology promises to make access to product information easier, safer and more sustainable (Originalsource).
As someone who deals with the possibilities of the DPP on a daily basis, I don't just see this as a technological innovation, but a real game changer for brands, manufacturers and consumers.
NFC and Digital Product Passport as a bridge between the product and the digital world
NFC and digital product passports - an unbeatable team: Up to now, access to digital product passports was usually controlled via QR codes or web interfaces. But NFC goes a decisive step further: it makes access seamless. Simply hold your smartphone up to the product - and the digital product passport opens, packed with all the relevant information. No scanning, no app installation, no barrier between customer and product.
This simplicity is crucial. Consumers expect seamless experiences, especially in the premium segment. Anyone buying a high-quality handbag, a designer chair or an exclusive cosmetics line does not want complicated processes. NFC turns the DPP into a real companion in the product life cycle - without any detours.
QR codes: A security gap that is getting bigger and, above all, more noticeable
Another strong argument in favor of NFC is security. QR codes have become a popular target for fraudsters. In so-called quishing (QR phishing), attackers manipulate QR codes and redirect users to fake websites in order to steal access data or payment information. The consumer advice center has already issued an urgent warning about these risks - and they affect everyone who scans QR codes, whether on packaging, posters or in restaurants.
I have already discussed the risks of QR codes and the benefits of NFC in my LinkedIn-Post . NFC chips have been used for decades as secure storage for biometric data in passports - a proven system with the highest security standards. While QR codes can be easily copied or manipulated, NFC offers a reliable and secure solution for the digital product passport.
With NFC, this risk is almost completely eliminated. An NFC chip permanently integrated in the product cannot simply be replaced or forged. It establishes an authentic and secure connection directly to the manufacturer's original source - a decisive advantage for brands that rely on security and trust.
Digital Product Passport and NFC: What does this shared future mean for brands and manufacturers?
The application possibilities are enormous:
Transparency & sustainability: Customers can see at a glance where the materials come from, what recycling options are available and how sustainable the product is.
Authenticity & product safety: Counterfeiting is a problem, especially in the luxury and cosmetics sector. With NFC, every user can check in seconds whether the product is genuine.
Direct customer communication: Brands can use NFC to provide exclusive content - from care instructions to personalized offers.
Regulatory compliance: The EU is driving forward new directives with the Digital Product Passport. Companies will have to deliver sooner or later. So why not start with the best technology right away?
The new RISC-V chip shows how powerful and energy-efficient NFC can be today. Instead of expensive and complex hardware, a tiny chip is all that is needed to integrate a DPP directly into the product. This is a huge step forward, especially for sustainable packaging and durable consumer goods.
At Narravero, this is exactly where we see the future: digital product passports that are intuitively accessible and offer real added value. With NFC technology, we are creating a new level of customer loyalty, transparency and efficiency.
Digital product passport and NFC: a trust-building digital pairing
The combination of NFC and Digital Product Passport is more than just a technological gimmick - it is the logical next step in a world that demands more sustainability, authenticity and smart interaction. Companies that invest now are not only pioneers, but are actively shaping the future of digital product communication.