How to fix NFC issues on your Fairphone

  • Updated 

If you are having trouble using NFC (Near Field Communication) on your phone, basic checks can usually get it working again. This guide walks you through checking your phone's setup, testing the hardware, and resolving common connection issues.

If you are setting up NFC for the first time, read our guide on how to set up near field communication (NFC) to make sure the feature is turned on correctly.

What to check before you begin

Make sure that your phone is up-to-date. If you are not running the latest software, or you are not sure, learn how to Check and update your software version.

NFC allows your phone to communicate with payment terminals, headphones, and other phones over very short distances. Before troubleshooting your phone, verify where the NFC chip is located and check if the issue is coming from the other device.

Where to find the NFC chip on your phone

Because NFC has a short range, holding the correct part of your phone against the reader is essential:

The Fairphone (Gen. 6/Gen. 6+)

Located under the upper back cover on the top unit.

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Fairphone 5

Located under the surface of the battery below the back cover.

Fairphone 4

Located on the inside of the back cover.

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Fairphone 3(+)

Located in the core spare part on the lower left side of the phone, below the icon printed on the back cover.

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Check the other device

If your phone fails to connect only at a specific payment terminal, in one particular store, or with a single pair of headphones, the issue likely lies with the other device. Check the manufacturer's website or contact their support team to check for compatibility or software updates.

How to fix NFC connection issues

If your phone's NFC is not responding with the usual vibration or data transfer, follow these steps:

Position the NFC chips close together

NFC chips must be within a few millimeters of each other to work. Adjust the position of your phone against the reader or device until they line up.

Remove your phone case

Protective cases add extra thickness and material that radio signals must pass through. Remove your case and try scanning again.

Check your software and payment app setup

Contactless payments require an updated payment app such as Google Wallet or your bank's official app. Ensure your app is updated and set up with a compatible payment card.

Some card types and banks do not support contactless payments through smartphones. If you are unsure whether your card is supported, contact your bank directly.

How to run an NFC hardware test

If NFC is not working at all, you can use the built-in test tool to check if the hardware sensor is functioning correctly.

The Fairphone (Gen. 6/Gen. 6+), Fairphone 5, or Fairphone 4
  1. Open the Phone app.
  2. Dial *#*#2886#*#* to open the Service Menu.
  3. Tap Manu.
  4. Tap NFC.
  5. Hold another NFC-enabled phone, contactless payment card, or public transport card against the NFC area of your phone.
  6. If the phone vibrates and displays NFC: Detected, tap PASS. If nothing happens, tap FAIL.
Fairphone 3(+)
  1. Open the Phone app.
  2. Dial *#*#66#*#* to open the Service Menu.
  3. Tap Service tests > Test Single.
  4. Tap NFC Reader Mode.
  5. Hold a contactless card or NFC device near the lower left section of your phone.
  6. When the phone vibrates and displays NFC Card Reader Test Pass, tap Back, then tap PASS or FAIL depending on the result.

If your phone fails the hardware test, please contact Customer Support so we can assist you with a repair.

What to do if you still need help

Test in Safe mode

A third-party app running in the background may be blocking NFC functionality. Restart your phone in Safe mode to test if an installed app is causing the issue.

Check error messages

If NFC reacts but displays an error message, read the message carefully for next steps. If the prompt is unclear or you need further assistance, reach out to our Customer Support team.

Still need help?

First try our self-service portal and then reach out to our customer support team. You can also open a support request directly through the My Fairphone app pre-installed on your device.