Infineon announced last week a 32-bit high-security flash microcontroller designed to bring a layer of security and convenience to mobile applications based on NFC (Near Field Communication).

The new NFC-enabled SIM card microcontroller combines a Single Wire Protocol (SWP) interface with contactless Mifare technology. The security microcontroller enables new services on mobile devices, such as ticketing, secure banking and loyalty programs. Users of NFC-enabled mobile phones, where a SIM card holding this chip is integrated, will be able to make payments or access public transportation by holding the mobile phone in front of a contactless terminal.

"With its vast expertise in SIM cards and payment applications, Infineon is among the few semiconductor suppliers offering chips that combine Mifare capability with SWP and security in silicon. Together with fast execution of transactions, NFC may change the way we use our mobile phones," said Dr. Helmut Gassel, vice president and general manager, Chip Card and Security ICs, Infineon Technologies. "With our new microcontroller, mobile phones will offer NFC functionality that is secure, convenient and efficient."