I Transformed My Samsung Phone into a Super Device Using Just a $6 NFC Tag Pack—Here’s My Secret!
NFC (Near Field Communication) technology is often overlooked, despite its utility. Though less prominent than UWB (Ultra Wideband) or Wi-Fi, NFC facilitates practical applications that streamline daily tasks.
A few months ago, I acquired NFC tags for an Android Auto automation. While I only needed two for that project, I ended up with several extras, which I’ve since repurposed creatively.
By strategically placing these tags in my home and vehicle, and utilizing Samsung’s Modes and Routines app developed alongside the Routines+ Good Lock module, I’m able to optimize various tasks simply by tapping my phone against them.
The best part? You can do the same.
Your Use of NFC Tags in Daily Life
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Understanding the Underutilization of NFC Tags
To start, it’s important to have some spare NFC tags on hand—these don’t need to store information, as they serve merely as triggers. A Samsung device is preferred, although any Android phone with an automation app like Tasker could work.
The affordability of NFC tags is a key selling point. I bought a batch of ten for only $6, and they provide countless uses, even cheaper in the U.S., where a pack of fifty is under $9.
When coupled with the right tools, NFC tags offer immense value for a low cost.
Some Android applications utilize NFC for various actions, but Samsung’s Modes and Routines elevates this concept. Assigning an NFC tag as a trigger allows me to execute a series of automated tasks instead of manually initiating each one, saving me valuable time.
What kinds of tasks have I set up? Some are crucial for kicking off my day, while others assist in alleviating mental load, allowing me to concentrate on what truly matters. Below are some simple recipes you can implement, modify, or build upon as needed.
Creating Routines on Your Samsung Device
Finding the Modes and Routines app on a Samsung device is straightforward. Here’s how to create your own routines:
- Go to Settings > Modes and Routines > Routines and hit the + to start a new routine.
- Tap the + under If, scroll to NFC tagged, and scan your NFC tag. This tag will then trigger your routine.
- Return to the + under Then to select the actions you wish to take.
- Once complete, go back and tap Save.
Consider naming each routine and customizing the tags (with a marker, sticker, etc.) to keep track of what each one activates.
Now, let’s explore my routines!
Morning Routine
Ah, mornings! I tend to snooze a bit too long, making alarms ineffective. To counteract this, I use an app called NFC Alarm Clock, which requires me to scan a specific NFC tag to turn the alarm off. By placing this tag outside my bedroom—like by the coffee maker or bathroom—I force myself up.
In addition, when I scan the tag to disable the alarm, it activates a Samsung routine that adjusts my display brightness and enables the Eye Comfort Shield feature, protecting my eyes during winter mornings.
Triggered apps include Google Calendar, where I check my schedule, and a Google Keep note for organizing my day. This pairing allows me to review nightly notes and plan my tasks for the day ahead.
I spend about five minutes on this process, after which I access Kagi News for my daily update. You could personalize this with a Spotify playlist or coffee timer for added functionality!
Here’s what my routine looks like:
- 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
- Advanced options: Confirm before next action
- Apps > Open an app or do an app action: Kagi News
Ideal tag placement: Near the coffee maker, fridge, or bathroom.
Work-from-Home Routine
Since I work at my computer most of the day, my phone is connected to my desk, charging and mirrored on my screen.
To start my workday right, I’ve set up a routine to enable vital settings that optimize performance, protect my eyesight, and reduce distractions.
This includes keeping the phone unlocked, setting Battery Protection to 85% since it’s always plugged in, and enabling Link to Windows.
I also use the Pomodoro technique, so the last action is to open my favorite timing app, Tomato (the 50/15 split works best for me).
The routine:
- Connections > Wi-Fi: On
- Connections > Mobile data: Off
- Display > Brightness: 20%
- Display > Eye comfort shield: Adaptive
- Battery > Battery protection: 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
Where to place the tag: Right side of my desk.
Pre-Exercise Routine
To encourage outdoor activity, I’ve crafted a routine to ensure I leave the house prepared.
I enjoy listening to podcasts during my walks—currently diving into a Titanic series—so I adjust the Bluetooth volume accordingly, and the Podcast Republic app opens immediately for convenience.
Previously, I’ve left essential items behind, so I included a reminder popup after a short delay before I prompt WhatsApp to open my fiancée’s chat to share my location.
It would be ideal if Samsung offered a feature to automate messaging contacts, but that’s not currently available.
The routine:
- 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“
- Advanced options > Wait before next action: 10 seconds
- Functions > Show custom popup: “Remember keys, shopping bags, earbuds.”
- Advanced options > Wait before next action: 10 seconds
- Apps > Open an app or do an app action: WhatsApp “Contact”
Where to place the tag: Front door or porch light switch.
Android Auto Routine
This routine inspired my exploration of automating tasks. My goal was to simplify how my fiancée and I connect our devices to Android Auto.
Using two tags—one for connecting and one for disconnecting—streamlines the process; tapping either tag instantly creates or sever connections. This has significantly simplified our experience!
Adjustments have been made to enhance the system, such as turning off the Extra dim function, which previously darkened my dashboard screen unnecessarily.
The routine:
- Accessibility > Extra dim: Off
- Display > Brightness: 5%
- Connections > Wi-Fi: On
- Location > Location: On
- Connections > Bluetooth: On
- Advanced options > Wait before next action: 2-3 seconds
- Connect to Bluetooth device: My Android Auto dongle
- Connections > Mobile data: On
- Get > Get Android Auto status
Where to place the tag: On the dashboard.
Cooking Routine
This newly developed routine has room for enhancement.
I enjoy cooking and store most of my recipes in Samsung Food. This routine launches the app alongside Google Clock to keep me timely, particularly while baking.
I’ve also attached an NFC tag to my fridge which opens Google Keep, where I maintain a grocery list, though I seldom use it. I might combine this with my cooking routine moving forward.
The routine:
- 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
Where to place the tag: In the kitchen, ideally on the fridge or cooktop.
Bedtime Routine
My last routine prepares my smartphone for bedtime.
This launches CareSleep, a white noise application that helps me drift off to sleep. This automated setup encourages limited phone use before bedtime.
After allowing a three-minute delay, the routine opens Google Keep where I review the day’s notes and tasks for the following morning.
Before this, I ensure Battery protection is set to 95%, with Eye Comfort Shield and Extra Dim activated and adjusted accordingly.
The routine:
- 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
- Advanced options: Wait before next action: 03:00 minutes
- Apps > Open an app or do an app action: Google Keep
Where to place the tag: On my bedside table.
This overview showcases just a fraction of the potential of NFC tags and Samsung Modes and Routines. I’m continually seeking new applications for these chips, so if you have any creative routines, I encourage you to share your experiences in the comments!
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