NFC technology, often overshadowed by more glamorous features like UWB and Wi-Fi, quietly enhances our daily lives in ways that are both practical and efficient. Recently, I explored the potential of NFC tags, initially acquiring them for a specific Android Auto automation project. With extra tags on hand, I discovered a world of possibilities that transformed mundane tasks into seamless experiences.
Why NFC tags are underappreciated and underutilized
To embark on this journey, the first step is acquiring some NFC tags. They are inexpensive, with a pack of ten available for around , making them an accessible tool for anyone looking to streamline their daily routines. In the U.S., the price is even lower, with fifty tags costing just under . While various Android apps can utilize NFC for triggering actions, Samsung’s Modes and Routines app, enhanced by the Routines+ Good Lock module, takes this functionality to the next level.
By setting an NFC tag as a trigger, users can automate a series of tasks that would otherwise require manual activation, saving precious minutes each time. The potential applications are vast, and the following routines illustrate how NFC tags can be integrated into daily life.
How to create new routines on your Samsung phone
Creating routines with NFC tags on a Samsung phone is straightforward:
- Open Settings > Modes and Routines > Routines tab and tap the + to create a new routine.
- Under If, tap the +, scroll down to NFC tagged, and scan the NFC tag.
- Head back to Then and select the actions you want to automate.
- Once satisfied, return to the Create routine screen and tap Save.
Consider naming your routine and customizing the NFC tag for easy identification. Now, let’s delve into some practical routines that can enhance your day-to-day activities.
My morning routine
To combat my tendency to snooze alarms, I employ a third-party alarm clock app called NFC Alarm Clock. This app requires me to scan a specific NFC tag to turn off the alarm, which I strategically place in locations like the coffee machine or bathroom mirror. As I disable the alarm, it triggers a routine that adjusts my phone’s display brightness and activates the Eye Comfort Shield feature, ensuring a gentle start to my day.
Additionally, this routine opens Google Calendar and Google Keep, allowing me to review my schedule and organize my tasks for the day. I allocate about five minutes for this process before catching up on the latest news through Kagi News. Here’s a breakdown of my morning routine:
- Connections > Wi-Fi: On
- Connections > Mobile data: Off
- Display > Brightness: 50%
- Display > Eye comfort shield: Adaptive
- Lock screen and AOD > Keep your phone unlocked
- Apps > Open an app pair: Google Calendar and Keep Notes
- Advanced options: Wait before next action: 05:00 minutes
- Apps > Open an app or do an app action: Kagi News
My work-from-home routine
During my work-from-home days, I have a routine that optimizes my phone settings for productivity. This includes keeping my phone unlocked, setting battery protection to 85%, and enabling Link to Windows for seamless connectivity. I also use the Pomodoro technique, so my routine opens the Tomato app to help manage my work sessions. Here’s how it looks:
- Connections > Wi-Fi: On
- Connections > Mobile data: Off
- Display > Brightness: 20%
- Display > Eye comfort shield: Adaptive
- Battery > Battery Protection: On, Maximum, 85%
- Lock screen and AOD > Keep your phone unlocked
- Connected devices > Link to Windows: On
- Apps > Open an app or do an app action: Tomato
My pre-outdoor exercise routine
As I strive to spend more time outdoors, I’ve crafted a routine that ensures I’m prepared for my walks. This routine activates my location services, adjusts Bluetooth audio settings, and opens my podcast app to pick up where I left off. Additionally, it reminds me of essential items to take along, such as keys and shopping bags. Here’s the setup:
- Connections > Wi-Fi: Off
- Connections > Mobile data: On
- Location > Location: On
- Display > Brightness: 100%
- Sounds and vibration > Sound mode and volume: Vibrate
- Sounds and vibration > Media volume > Bluetooth audio: 65%
- Apps > Open an app or do an app action: Podcast Republic “Playing“
- Functions > Show custom popup: “Remember keys, shopping bags, earbuds.”
- Apps > Open an app or do an app action: WhatsApp “Contact”
My Android Auto routine
This routine simplifies the connection process between my phone and Android Auto. By using two NFC tags, one for connecting and another for disconnecting, I can easily switch between devices. The routine adjusts settings to optimize performance and power consumption. Here’s how it works:
- Accessibility > Extra dim: Off
- Display > Brightness: 5%
- Connections > Wi-Fi: On
- Location > Location: On
- Connections > Bluetooth: On
- Connect to Bluetooth device: My Android Auto dongle
- Connections > Mobile data: On
My cooking routine
In the kitchen, I use NFC tags to launch Samsung Food alongside Google Clock, ensuring I don’t forget to set timers while cooking. This routine is designed to enhance my culinary experience and keep me organized. Here’s the configuration:
- Functions > Show custom popup: “Remember your apron!”
- Connections > Wi-Fi: On
- Connections > Mobile data: Off
- Display > Brightness: 100%
- Display > Screen timeout: 10 minutes
- Lock screen and AOD > Keep your phone unlocked
- Apps > Open an app pair: Samsung Food and Google Clock: New timer
My bedtime routine
As the day winds down, my bedtime routine prepares my device for a restful night. It launches a white noise app and prompts me to review my notes in Google Keep, ensuring I’m ready for the next day. The routine also adjusts settings to promote better sleep. Here’s how it’s structured:
- Connections > Wi-Fi: On
- Connections > Mobile data: Off
- Notifications > Do not disturb: On
- Display > Brightness: 20%
- Display > Eye comfort shield: Custom, 75%
- Accessibility > Extra dim: On, Intensity 80%
- Battery > Battery Protection: On, Maximum, 95%
- Apps > Open an app or do an app action: CareSleep
- Apps > Open an app or do an app action: Google Keep
This exploration of NFC tags and Samsung Modes and Routines showcases just a fraction of what’s achievable with these small but powerful tools. As I continue to discover new applications, I invite others to share their innovative uses for NFC tags, enriching our collective experience.
