Ultra-thin NFC tags set to revolutionise card gaming

Currently, Cartamundi embeds silicon-based NFC chips in their game cards, connecting traditional game play with electronic devices such as smartphones and tablets. The advanced IGZO TFT technology that will be used addresses the game card industry call for much thinner, more flexible and virtually unbreakable NFC chips. Such chips are essential to improve and broaden the applicability of interactive technology for game cards, compared to the silicon based NFC chips currently used. Next to technical specifications, these next-gen NFC tags will better balance manufacturing cost and functionality.

Chris Van Doorslaer, CEO of Cartamundi, explains: “With the collaboration's thin-film and nano-electronics expertise, we’re connecting the physical with the digital, which will enable lightweight smart devices with additional value and content for consumers.”

“Not only will Cartamundi be working on the NFC chip of the future, but it will also reinvent the industry’s standards in assembly process and the conversion into game cards,” adds Steven Nietvelt, Chief Innovation & Marketing Officer, Cartamundi. “All of this is part of an ongoing process of technological innovation inside Cartamundi. I am glad our innovation engineers will collaborate with the strongest technological researchers and developers in the field at imec and Holst Centre.”

“Imec and Holst Centre aim to shape the future and our collaboration with Cartamundi will do so for the future of gaming technology and connected devices,” says Paul Heremans, Department Director, Thin Film Electronics, imec and Technology Director, Holst Centre. “Chip technology has penetrated society’s daily life right down to game cards. We are excited to work with Cartamundi to improve the personal experience that gaming delivers.”