RFID tags link French magazine to internet

A French magazine is pioneering a new approach to linking its traditional print-format publication with its online edition. The latest issue of Amusement magazine has a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag embedded within it that allows it to be used to access exclusive online content.

Readers of the influential lifestyle and technology magazine can thumb through the pages of the print edition as normal. However, when the issue is placed near an RFID-equipped PC, the unique identification information coded within it launches online content. RFID tags and printed media are no strangers; having been used by libraries for many years as a means to track inventory. But this is believed to be the first time RFID technology has been used to provide media content.

RFID tags are widely used in retail and industry to identify products, aid stock control and prevent theft. Passive versions use radio frequency energy generated by the reader to power a miniature onboard IC containing the identification data. Because they require no battery, they have a virtually unlimited shelf-life making them ideal for this kind of application.

According to Labels & Labelling magazine, the latest issue of Amusement is the result of a joint effort between French high-tech company Violet and GS1 France. NFC tags (size 15×15 mm) from UPM Raflatac are fixed in the middle of the first double page of Amusement’s fourth issue. The NFC tag is designed to work with Violet’s new ‘Mir:ror’ RFID interrogator, which plugs into a computer’s USB port. When the magazine’s RFID-tagged page is brought near the interrogator, the tag’s unique ID number is scanned and exclusive online content launched.

‘We consider this latest issue of Amusement to be an excellent door-opener for connecting traditional and new media using minute RFID tags. As part of UPM, a leading manufacturer of magazine papers, we view this as a highly attractive, real-life field of application,’ said Mikko Nikkanen, business development director, RFID, UPM Raflatac.

‘These publicly-available applications are shining examples of the latest ways in which we can use RFID technology – ways that have already been tested and approved in the BtoB world. As the cost of RFID components has already come down significantly, we see opportunities for totally new industry take-offs based on innovative and value increasing services for the consumer,’ said Pierre Georget, CEO of GS1 France.

RFID tags from UPM Raflatac connect French magazine to internet – Labels and Labelling – Latest News