NuCurrent, a Chicago-based developer of wireless power systems for compact devices, has joined the governing board of the NFC Forum, becoming the ninth Sponsor Member of the global standards body.
The move places the company alongside technology heavyweights including Apple, Google, Huawei, Identiv, Infineon, NXP, Sony, and STMicroelectronics.
The NFC Forum, which sets the global standards for near-field communication technology, aims to ensure consistent and reliable user experiences across mobile payments, access control, and device connectivity.
The addition of NuCurrent underscores the growing industry focus on integrating wireless power transfer into small consumer and Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
“NFC Forum explores and pushes the boundaries of NFC technology to disrupt technical norms and enable evermore seamless and convenient NFC capabilities to end users,” said Preeti Ohri Khemani, Chair of the NFC Forum. She noted that wireless power had become a strategic priority for the organisation since it introduced its Wireless Charging Specification, adding that NuCurrent’s expertise would strengthen the Forum’s work “as this progressive space is advancing at pace.”
NuCurrent, already an active contributor to the Forum’s efforts on wireless charging standards and certification processes, has developed technology used in applications ranging from wearable devices to industrial sensors.
Jacob Babcock, NuCurrent’s Chief Executive, said the firm’s involvement would help shape the future of consumer technology design. “From smart glasses and in-ear audio to the devices we haven’t imagined yet, the future of consumer tech is being defined by its ability to integrate seamlessly into people’s lives,” he said. “Just as NFC transformed how we pay, access, and interact with the world, NFC wireless charging will unlock the next era of wearables and edge computing by allowing easy, reliable and trusted charging capabilities.”
The NFC Forum is currently updating its Wireless Charging Specification, aiming to boost charging power to 3 watts. The enhancement would shorten charging times and improve industrial design flexibility while supporting broader applications, including as an alternative to disposable batteries.
In parallel, the Forum is collaborating with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) to establish the NFC Wireless Charging Specification as an internationally recognised standard, a move that could further accelerate adoption across consumer and industrial markets.
