Swipe phone: Sony unveils SmartTags technology

Las Vegas – Sony has launched a new product for its Xperia phones that enables users to change settings using pre-programmed near-field communication (NFC) tags.

The SmartTags can be programmed to switch the user’s phone between different profiles for different occasions. By swiping the handset over the tags, the phone automatically registers the location and alters settings, including ring tone and Bluetooth connectivity, accordingly.

By setting up separate profiles for the bedroom, the office or the car – the user is able to compartmentalise their phone’s activity – so the device has separate personalities in each situation. When using the bedroom tag for example, the alarm can be set to automatically activate, the ring tone can be switched to silent, and unnecessary applications disabled to preserve battery time.

For more innovative technology examples, read our forthcoming review of 2012 International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.