I2C Bridge Tag Enhances IoT Device Security with NFC Authentication

Infineon Technologies has introduced a new NFC I2C bridge tag designed for single-tap authentication and secure configuration of Internet of Things (IoT) devices. The Infineon Optiga Authenticate NBT stands out as the sole asymmetric cryptography tag in the market certified as a Type 4 Tag by the NFC Forum. This certification ensures seamless contactless NFC communication between IoT devices and readers like smartphones.

The proliferation of IoT devices across various industries is undeniable, with these devices becoming ubiquitous. As the number of smart devices continues to rise, there is a corresponding increase in the expectations for user experience, particularly in terms of the ease of device setup and pairing.

One of the key features of the bridge tag is its versatility in applications. It can be utilized for secure configuration of electronic devices lacking displays, activation of shared mobility vehicles, passive commissioning of unpowered smart light bulbs before installation, and data logging on patient health monitors.

The tag leverages Infineon's Integrity Guard 32 security architecture, boasting EAL6+ certification for both the hardware and crypto libraries. Supporting both symmetric and asymmetric cryptographic authentication, as well as pass-through and asynchronous data transfer modes, the tag offers robust security measures.

Powered by Tegrion hardware, the device enables a contactless interface speed of up to 848 Kbit/s and an I2C interface supporting up to 1 Mbits/s, delivering optimal performance crucial for demanding applications. With 8 KB of memory for storing customer and application-specific configuration data, the tag's high on-chip capacitance allows for compact antenna designs, optimizing both costs and space requirements.

For developers interested in exploring the capabilities of the Optiga Authenticate NBT, Infineon provides the Optiga Authenticate NBT Development Shield and a development kit for evaluation and design integration. Technical documentation and extensive host-side integration support are readily accessible without the need for a non-disclosure agreement (NDA). Infineon also offers training sessions for their security products.

Interested parties can now request samples of the Optiga Authenticate NBT, with the devices set to be available to the wider market starting in August 2024. For more information, visit www.infineon.com/OPTIGA-Authenticate-NBT.