STMicroelectronics, a global semiconductor leader, is helping the automotive industry adopt next-generation digital key systems and wireless charging solutions with powerful NFC capabilities.

STMicroelectronics today announced that it has expanded its ST25R portfolio with the introduction of new automotive NFC readers, the ST25R500 and ST25R501.

This new product delivers optimal performance for digital key, engine starting, NFC card protection and center console applications, and features excellent wake-up and detection range.

The ST25R500 and ST25R501 feature industry-leading 2W peak output power and high receiver sensitivity, supporting a detection range up to 70% wider than existing products.

In particular, the ST25R501 is an ultra-small automotive NFC reader that is available in a 4mm x 4mm QFN package, reducing PCB area by 36% while maintaining powerful performance, and is optimized for door handle and B-pillar modules.

In addition to vehicle entry and ignition systems, this NFC reader also performs functions such as NFC card protection, smartphone pairing, and data transfer on the center console Qi wireless charger, and supports various protocols such as NFC-A, NFC-B (ISO14443A/B), and NFC-F (FeliCa™).

alsoIt also provides NFC-A/NFC-F card emulation function for protecting Qi charging NFC cards, enhancing security and connectivity.

ST is showcasing new products in its ST25R portfolio at Embedded World 2025, highlighting creative ways to leverage NFC technology in a variety of automotive applications.

“Developed in collaboration with key players in the automotive market, our new NFC reader simplifies engineering challenges and empowers product design teams to deliver more sophisticated designs,” said Rene Uthe, ST’s automotive NFC reader marketing manager.

ST's new NFC reader offers high reception sensitivity, improved noise suppression, and ensures reliable operation even in harsh environments.

Additionally, it automatically compensates for detuning effects caused by various antenna sizes and distances through active waveshaping control and dynamic output power functions to maintain a stable signal.

The ST25R500 is currently in production in a 5mm x 5mm QFN package, with pricing starting at $2.14 in quantities of 10,000 pieces.

The ST25R501 is expected to be available in Q3 2025 in a 4mm x 4mm ultra-small automotive-grade QFN package, priced starting at $1.93 in quantities of 10,000 units.