What is NFC?

NFC stands for Near Field Communication. It's the same wireless technology that powers contactless payments (think Apple Pay and Google Pay) — but in a business card, it stores a URL instead of payment data. When someone taps your NFC card to their phone, the chip wakes up and sends that URL to the browser in under a second.

NFC works at short range (a few centimetres) and requires no pairing, no Bluetooth, no Wi-Fi, and no app installation on either device.

Key fact: All iPhones since the XS (2018) support passive NFC reading. The vast majority of Android devices have supported it since 2014. In 2026, NFC compatibility is effectively universal among smartphones.

What makes a card "metallic"?

A metallic NFC card is a business card crafted from metal — typically stainless steel or titanium — with an NFC chip embedded inside the card body. The chip is usually placed slightly off-centre to avoid interference with the metal shell.

The visual and tactile quality of a metallic card is dramatically different from plastic. The weight, the sound it makes on a table, the way it reflects light — everything communicates precision and intention before a single word is spoken.

Stainless steel vs titanium — which to choose?

Stainless Steel

Heavier and denser. Classic polished or brushed finish. High reflectivity. Cooler to the touch. More affordable than titanium. NAJEM's most popular metallic card.

Titanium

Lighter and stronger than steel. Distinctive matte grey tone. More muted reflectivity. Warmer to the touch. Subtly premium — favoured by those who prefer understated luxury.

Gold Finish

PVD gold-coated stainless steel. Bold and unmistakable. Best for professionals in luxury, real estate, finance, or fashion where a striking first impression is expected.

Black / Dark

DLC or black PVD coating over steel. Sleek and modern. Pairs with minimalist design systems. Popular with tech founders and creative directors.

How does an NFC metallic card work — step by step?

  1. You carry your NAJEM card. It contains an NFC chip programmed to your portfolio URL (e.g. najem.ch/en/yourname).
  2. You meet someone worth connecting with. Instead of fumbling for a paper card or typing a number, you tap your card to the back of their phone.
  3. Their phone reads the chip in under 1 second and opens your portfolio in their browser — no app needed.
  4. They see your professional portfolio — photo, title, bio, links, contact details — and can save your contact or message you directly.
  5. Your card never goes out of date. Update your portfolio online and the card always shows your latest information.

NFC metallic card vs QR code — which is better?

Both work, but they feel very different in practice. A QR code requires the other person to open their camera, aim it, hold steady, and wait for recognition. An NFC tap is instantaneous and effortless — and a metallic card produces a physical reaction (the weight, the sound) that QR codes simply can't match.

For high-value professional encounters — the kind where a second impression matters — the NFC metallic card wins.

Why choose NAJEM's NFC metallic cards?

NAJEM is Switzerland's only professional identity platform that combines a premium metallic NFC card with a fully bespoke digital portfolio. Competitors like Popl and HiHello offer plastic cards linked to basic contact pages. NAJEM goes further:

Get your NFC metallic card

Free portfolio to start. Optional NFC metallic card for CHF 49.99. Full Cosmos experience for CHF 399.99.

Frequently asked questions about NFC metallic cards

Does an NFC metallic card work with all phones?

Yes — all iPhones since the XS (2018) and virtually all Android phones since 2014 support passive NFC reading. In 2026 this covers the overwhelming majority of smartphones in use.

Can I update the information on my NFC card?

Yes. The chip stores a URL that points to your NAJEM portfolio. Update your portfolio online and your card automatically shows the latest information — no need to reprint or reprogramme anything.

Is a metallic NFC card compatible with airport security?

Yes. NFC chips don't trigger metal detectors. The metallic card itself will register at airport security like any other metal object in your wallet, but the chip causes no issues.

How durable is a stainless steel NFC card?

Extremely durable. Stainless steel won't bend, crack, or fade. The NFC chip is encapsulated inside the card body and protected from impacts. These cards are designed to last years, not months.

What is the difference between NAJEM's card and a Popl card?

Popl's cards are plastic. NAJEM's cards are metallic — stainless steel or titanium. Beyond the material, NAJEM connects your card to a fully bespoke digital portfolio website, not just a contact card. NAJEM is also the only Swiss-native platform.