Having trouble with your NFC stickers? This guide covers the most common issues and their solutions.
Phone Won't Detect Sticker
Check NFC is Enabled
The most common issue is simply having NFC turned off.
On iPhone: NFC is always enabled on iPhone 7 and later. No settings to change!
On Android:
- Open Settings
- Search for "NFC" or go to Connections/Connected devices
- Enable NFC
Find Your Phone's NFC Reader
Different phones have the NFC antenna in different locations:
- iPhone: Top back of the phone
- Samsung: Center back
- Google Pixel: Upper back
- Other Android: Usually center or upper back
Try tapping different parts of your phone against the sticker until it reads.
Remove Phone Case
Thick or metal phone cases can block NFC signals. Try:
- Removing the case temporarily
- Using a thinner case
- Tapping more firmly
Sticker Won't Write
Sticker Might Be Locked
Some NFC stickers can be permanently locked after writing. Once locked, they cannot be rewritten. This is a security feature.
Check if your sticker is:
- Unlocked - Can be written to
- Locked - Read-only, cannot be changed
Sticker May Be Damaged
NFC stickers can be damaged by:
- Bending or creasing
- Exposure to strong magnets
- Physical impact
- Extreme temperatures
Try a new sticker if you suspect damage.
Insufficient Permissions
Make sure the Sticksy app has the necessary permissions:
- NFC access
- Background operation (for some features)
Inconsistent Reading
Surface Issues
If reads are inconsistent:
- Check for metal - Metal blocks NFC signals
- Remove air bubbles - Reapply the sticker smoothly
- Check thickness - The surface might be too thick
Interference
NFC can be affected by:
- Other NFC tags nearby
- Credit cards in phone cases
- Electronic devices
Try removing potential sources of interference.
App-Specific Issues
App Crashes on Write
- Close and reopen the app
- Restart your phone
- Update to the latest app version
- Reinstall the app if problems persist
Content Not Showing Correctly
If the programmed content isn't working as expected:
- Tap Read NFC on the home screen to scan the sticker
- Check the Content section to verify what's stored
- Tap Update NFC to modify the content
- Select the correct content type and re-enter your information
- Tap Send to NFC to write the corrected data
Can't Find the Content Type I Need
Use the search bar at the bottom of the Update NFC screen to quickly find options. If you need a custom URL, select the URL option—it works for any website or web app link.
Frequently Asked Questions
How close does my phone need to be?
NFC typically works within 1-4 cm (0.5-1.5 inches). Direct contact usually works best.
Can NFC stickers be rewritten?
Yes, unless they've been locked. Sticksy stickers can be rewritten thousands of times.
Do NFC stickers need batteries?
No! NFC stickers are powered by the electromagnetic field from your phone. They never need charging or battery replacement.
How long do NFC stickers last?
With proper care, NFC stickers can last 10+ years. They have no moving parts or batteries to degrade.
Will NFC work through my phone case?
Usually yes, unless it's very thick or contains metal. Thin plastic and silicone cases work fine.
Can I password-protect my sticker?
The Sticksy app doesn't currently support password protection, but you can lock stickers to prevent modification.
What's the maximum amount of data?
Storage capacity varies by sticker type. When you read a sticker, the app shows you the Size (total capacity), Used (current usage), and Available (remaining space) in bytes. Most Sticksy stickers can store:
- URLs up to several hundred characters
- Contact cards with basic info
- Short text messages
Is NFC secure?
NFC itself doesn't encrypt data, so avoid storing sensitive information directly on stickers. For sensitive use cases, link to a secure webpage instead.
Still Need Help?
If you're still experiencing issues:
- Check our FAQ - More answers at sticksy.ca/help
- Email support - support@sticksy.ca
- Social media - Facebook, Instagram, X