Smartphone users who are looking to take their manicure game to the next level now have the option of getting NFC manicures, which are becoming a popular tech trend. NFC, which stands for “near-field communication,” involves placing an ultra-tiny tech chip on the nail that can interact with signals from a smartphone to trigger various responses. These chips are placed at the base of the manicure and can be removed delicately for reuse. Nail artists have described these chips as being paper-thin, about the size of an Advil, weightless, painless, and not causing any heat.
Nail artist Lori-Ellen Howe explained that there are two types of NFC chips that she uses for these manicures. One type is a microchip that can be encrypted with data such as a website or a Spotify song. Another type is a blinking light that turns on when the phone is unlocked. The NFC chip on the nail can interact with another person’s phone to bring up social media pages like Instagram or TikTok. Howe believes that this technology is just in its early stages and that the chips will continue to get smaller with more functionalities. She anticipates that the one-link maximum will expand, and it might even be possible for people to put on light shows from their nails in the future.
Despite the advanced technology involved in NFC manicures, it is relatively simple for anyone to use these NFC decals. They can be easily purchased online, and Howe recommends applying them over a base coat, followed by the sticker and then topping it off with some color. For light-up stickers, it is advised to leave a small area for the light to shine through, as they have a yellowish color that can be covered with opaque polish. This easy application process makes it accessible for anyone to enjoy the benefits of NFC technology on their nails without the need for a technical background.
The rise in popularity of NFC manicures could be attributed to the social interactions they enable, such as effortlessly sharing social media profiles or music with others simply by tapping their phone with the NFC chip on the nail. The convenience and novelty of this technology are appealing to individuals looking for unique ways to incorporate tech into their everyday lives. As the technology continues to evolve, there is much anticipation for the potential advancements in NFC manicures that will make them even more interactive and customizable in the future. With the ease of application and the endless possibilities for creativity, NFC manicures are a fun and innovative way for individuals to express themselves through their nail art while staying connected in the digital world.
