The T80 incorporates NXP's PN532 NFC chip, which makes it the first phone to be in line with the latest NFC Forum specifications, according to NXP. NFC is a short-range transmission standard that, unlike Bluetooth, requires no previous setup, and allows devices to find one another instantly.

NXP says the T80 is also the first phone capable of storing NFC data -- including mobile wallet, ticketing, and security information -- on a microSD card. Using NXP's SmartMX chip, the card will allow users to move from one phone to another with ease, according to the company.

Benq adds that the T80 can also store NFC data on a SIM card, using a format created by Taiwanese carrier Chunghwa Telecom. The card provides highly secure e-wallet services, along with a "massive" memory that can store transaction records and other content.

The limited other hardware details released by Benq for the T80 are fairly standard. For example, the device has a 2.2-inch screen, and a three-megapixel camera.

The T80 also has a custom user interface created using Adobe's Flash software. It is DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance)-compliant, and will be able to act as a remote control for home entertainment systems as soon as they incorporate NFC, accordig to the company.

Benq says initial samples of the T80 will roll out in March, when it will be initially tested by major real estate developer Farglory Land Development. In addition, Benq will collaborate with the Taipei Smart Card Corporation, whose RFID-based EasyCard is already being used to pay fares on Tapei's public transit system.

More about NFC

NFC essentially combines the functionality of an RFID reader and a Smart Card into one device. An extension of the ISO 14443 standard for RFID-based proximity cards, it is designed to offer a more power-efficient and affordable alternative to Bluetooth for very short-range, low-bandwidth applications.

NFC uses magnetic loop induction technology to transmit data over a few centimeters at up to 424Kbps using the unlicensed 13.56MHz band. There are both passive (one-way) and active (two-way) versions of the technology, the latter being similar to Bluetooth transfers. For further information, see our earlier coverage, here.

Availability

Benq provided no information on pricing or availability of the T80 outside Taiwan.

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