Stories with Tag NFC

• Show HN: I made a app that uses NFC as a physical switch to block distractions

  permalink

  Posted: 2025-01-21 16:52:42

  Verbose tl;dr

  Foqos is a mobile app designed to minimize distractions by using NFC tags as physical switches for focus modes. Tapping your phone on a strategically placed NFC tag activates a pre-configured profile that silences notifications, restricts access to distracting apps, and optionally starts a focus timer. This allows for quick and intentional transitions into focused work or study sessions by associating a physical action with a digital state change. The app aims to provide a tangible and frictionless way to disconnect from digital noise and improve concentration.

  A newly developed mobile application, named Foqos, leverages Near-Field Communication (NFC) technology to offer a tangible, physical solution for managing digital distractions. The app functions by associating specific NFC tags with designated focus modes or profiles on a user's device. When a user taps their phone against a programmed NFC tag, Foqos automatically adjusts the phone's settings to match the pre-configured profile associated with that particular tag. This allows for a swift and seamless transition into a focused work environment or other desired digital state.

  For instance, a user might program one NFC tag, perhaps placed on their desk, to activate a "Work" profile. This profile could be configured to silence notifications, disable access to distracting apps like social media or games, and activate a website blocker for unproductive websites. Another tag, possibly located on a bedside table, could be linked to a "Sleep" profile, which might enable Do Not Disturb, dim the screen, and launch a calming sleep sounds application.

  The application provides a high degree of customization, enabling users to tailor their profiles to their specific needs and preferences. This granular control allows for the creation of multiple profiles for various scenarios, such as studying, reading, family time, or any other situation where minimizing digital interruptions is beneficial. By physically interacting with an NFC tag, Foqos offers a more deliberate and intentional approach to managing digital distractions, as opposed to relying solely on willpower or navigating complex phone settings menus. This physical action reinforces the mental shift into the desired focus mode. The use of NFC tags also provides a clear visual cue, reminding the user of their current digital state. In essence, Foqos transforms simple NFC tags into physical switches for digital well-being.

  • HN
  • Show HN
  • App
  • NFC
  • Near Field Communication
  • productivity
  • focus
  • Distraction Blocking
  • digital wellbeing
  • Mobile App
  • Physical Switch
  • Toggle
  • Tech
  • Software

  Summary of Comments ( 71 )
  https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=42782295

  Verbose tl;dr

  Hacker News users discussed the potential usefulness of the app, particularly for focused work sessions. Some questioned its practicality compared to simply using existing phone features like Do Not Disturb or airplane mode. Others suggested alternative uses for the NFC tag functionality, such as triggering specific app profiles or automating other tasks. Several commenters expressed interest in the open-source nature of the project and the possibility of expanding its capabilities. There was also discussion about the security implications of NFC technology and the potential for unintended tag reads. A few users shared their personal experiences with similar self-control apps and techniques.

  The Hacker News post "Show HN: I made a app that uses NFC as a physical switch to block distractions" sparked a variety of comments, mostly focusing on the practicality, alternative solutions, and potential expansions of the app's core concept.

  Several commenters appreciated the tangible nature of using NFC tags as a physical switch for focus modes. They liked the idea of a physical action to trigger a change in digital behavior, finding it more intentional than a simple software toggle. Some even suggested this physicality could be beneficial for people with ADHD.

  However, the reliance on NFC was also a point of contention. Many questioned its convenience compared to existing software solutions or even simpler physical interventions like turning off notifications. Some commenters found the need to tap a phone against a tag cumbersome, especially when compared to readily available software toggles. The limited range of NFC also raised concerns, with some imagining scenarios where the tag might be just out of reach.

  Alternative solutions and improvements were also discussed extensively. Suggestions included using existing functionalities like airplane mode or Do Not Disturb, leveraging iOS's Focus modes, or employing tasker apps like Tasker or Shortcuts for Android and iOS respectively. Some users pointed out the existence of similar apps, questioning the uniqueness of the showcased app.

  Several commenters suggested expanding the app's functionality. Ideas included using NFC to trigger specific app configurations, automating tasks beyond just blocking distractions, or even integrating with smart home devices. One commenter mentioned using NFC tags to log time spent on certain tasks.

  A few comments focused on technical aspects, discussing potential battery drain from continuous NFC polling or inquiring about the app's architecture.

  While some expressed interest in trying the app, a general sentiment seemed to lean towards exploring or sticking with existing, potentially more convenient solutions. The discussion highlighted the trade-offs between the novelty and tangibility of a physical switch versus the ease and accessibility of established software solutions. The comments ultimately reflected a healthy skepticism towards the proposed solution while acknowledging the potential value of the core concept.

• Using your Apple device as an access card in unsupported systems

  permalink

  Posted: 2025-01-19 18:01:42

  Verbose tl;dr

  This project describes a method to use an Apple device (iPhone or Apple Watch) as an access card even with unsupported access control systems. It leverages the device's NFC capabilities to read the card's data, then emulates the card using an Arduino and RFID reader/writer. The user taps their physical access card on the RFID reader connected to the Arduino, which then transmits the card data to an Apple device via Bluetooth. The Apple device then stores and transmits this data wirelessly to the Arduino when presented to the reader, effectively cloning the original card's functionality. This allows users to unlock doors and other access points without needing their physical card.

  This GitHub repository, titled "Apple device as an access card in unsupported systems," details a method for leveraging the NFC capabilities of Apple devices, specifically iPhones and Apple Watches, to emulate access cards, even in systems that do not natively support Apple Wallet or Apple Pay. The author highlights the limitations of Apple's official access card functionality, which restricts usage to specifically partnered systems and requires explicit integration with Apple's ecosystem. This project aims to bypass these restrictions, allowing users to utilize their Apple devices as access cards in a wider range of scenarios, such as accessing buildings, garages, or other secured areas that rely on traditional NFC card readers.

  The core functionality revolves around reading the data from an existing physical access card using an NFC-enabled Android device and an app like NFC TagInfo by NXP. This process extracts the card's unique identifier and other relevant data. This extracted information is then carefully formatted and encoded into an NFC Data Exchange Format (NDEF) message. This NDEF message is designed to mimic the communication protocol of the original access card.

  The formatted NDEF message can then be written to an iPhone or Apple Watch using an app that supports custom NDEF writing, such as Shortcuts on iOS. The author provides detailed, step-by-step instructions, including screenshots, outlining the precise process for creating the necessary Shortcuts automation. This automation effectively transforms the Apple device into a virtual representation of the original access card.

  Once configured, the user can present their Apple device to the NFC reader, just as they would with the original physical card. The NFC reader interacts with the NDEF message stored on the Apple device, effectively receiving the same identification data as it would from the physical card, hopefully granting access.

  The author acknowledges that this method may not work with all access card systems, particularly those employing advanced security measures like cryptography or challenge-response authentication. The success of this approach depends on the simplicity and reliance on static card identifiers within the targeted access control system. Furthermore, the author emphasizes the ethical considerations and potential legal implications of cloning access cards, urging users to only apply this technique to systems they own or have explicit authorization to access. The provided instructions are intended for educational and experimental purposes, and the author disclaims any responsibility for misuse or unauthorized access attempts.

  • Apple
  • iOS
  • NFC
  • Access Control
  • Security
  • RFID
  • Card Emulation
  • Physical Access
  • Mobile Authentication
  • Hardware Hacking
  • Reverse Engineering
  • DIY

  Summary of Comments ( 92 )
  https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=42759557

  Verbose tl;dr

  HN users discuss the practicality and security implications of using an Apple device as an access card in unsupported systems. Several commenters point out the inherent security risks, particularly if the system relies solely on NFC broadcasting without further authentication. Others highlight the potential for lock-in and the difficulties in managing lost or stolen devices. Some express skepticism about the reliability of NFC in real-world scenarios, while others suggest alternative solutions like using a Raspberry Pi for more flexible and secure access control. The overall sentiment leans towards caution, with many emphasizing the importance of robust security measures in access control systems.

  The Hacker News post titled "Using your Apple device as an access card in unsupported systems" (https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=42759557) has generated a moderate number of comments discussing the project and its implications.

  Several commenters express enthusiasm for the project, praising its ingenuity and potential usefulness. They appreciate the ability to leverage existing Apple Wallet functionality for access control systems that haven't officially integrated with Apple's platform. The relative simplicity of the setup and use, particularly the NFC reading aspect, are also highlighted as positive aspects.

  Some users share their existing experiences and challenges with various access control systems, including issues with proprietary apps, key fobs, and the desire for a more unified solution. The Apple device integration is seen as a potential step towards this unification.

  A significant point of discussion revolves around security concerns. Some commenters question the security implications of essentially cloning access cards, particularly regarding the potential for unauthorized duplication and misuse. The developer's response within the comments clarifies that the project does not actually clone or crack the card's security, but rather emulates the card's behavior using the NFC functionality of the Apple device. They emphasize that any existing vulnerabilities in the original card system would remain regardless of this project. This sparked further discussion on the inherent vulnerabilities of certain access card systems themselves.

  There are technical discussions regarding the capabilities and limitations of the NFC functionality in Apple devices, particularly related to reading certain types of cards. Some users inquire about specific card compatibility and the potential for expanding the project's support.

  Finally, a few comments touch upon the legal and ethical considerations of using this approach, with some raising concerns about potential misuse and the need for responsible usage within the bounds of existing access control system regulations. There's also a brief discussion about open-sourcing the hardware component of the project.

  Overall, the comments reflect a mixture of excitement about the project's potential, tempered by pragmatic concerns about security, compatibility, and responsible use. The discussion highlights the ongoing desire for improved and more integrated access control solutions, while acknowledging the inherent complexities and potential pitfalls involved in achieving this goal.