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Can iPhones Read RFID?

Cykeo News RFID FAQ 80

You’re holding an iPhone. It unlocks with your face, pays for your coffee, and connects you to the world. It feels like it can do anything. So when you see an RFID tag on a warehouse pallet or an asset sticker, it’s natural to ask: Can iPhones read RFID?

Here’s the straightforward, no-fluff answer: Technically yes, but in a way that’s almost useless for any real business, logistics, or industrial tracking need.

Let’s unpack that. Starting with the iPhone 7, Apple included an NFC (Near Field Communication) reader. NFC is a specific type of RFID technology that operates at the 13.56 MHz frequency. So yes, your iPhone can read some RFID tags—specifically, NFC-compatible tags. You can test this: download a free app like “NFC Tools,” open it, and hold the top of your iPhone very close to a modern hotel key card or transit pass. You’ll see it pull data. That’s your iPhone reading a form of RFID.

The Critical Limitations That Break the Deal for Businesses

This capability is designed for secure, tap-based interactions like Apple Pay. It fails completely for the applications where companies like CYKEO provide solutions. Here’s why:

  1. The “Tap-Only” Rule: Your iPhone must be within 1-2 centimeters of the tag—essentially touching it. Imagine trying to take inventory by pressing your $1,000 phone against every box on a dusty warehouse shelf, or leaning into a pallet to touch a specific tag. It’s impractical and inefficient. Professional UHF RFID readers can scan from meters away.
  2. Wrong Frequency for the Job: The RFID tags that matter for supply chain, retail inventory, and asset tracking are overwhelmingly UHF tags (860-960 MHz). Your iPhone’s NFC reader is completely deaf to UHF signals. It also can’t read common 125 kHz low-frequency tags. Asking if an iPhone can read a warehouse pallet tag is like asking if an AM radio can play an FM station.
  3. One-at-a-Time Reading: iPhones are built for a secure, single-tag conversation (like a payment). They cannot perform bulk reading, which is the ability to identify dozens of tags in a field simultaneously. This bulk read capability is the entire point of using RFID for inventory counts or logistics verification.

So, When is the Answer to “Can iPhones Read RFID” Actually “Yes”?

Only in very narrow, personal use cases:

  • Reading an NFC smart poster to open a website.
  • Using NFC stickers to trigger phone shortcuts (e.g., “tap to launch a morning routine”).
  • Checking data on a compatible business card or some access cards.

For any professional application—tracking tools across a factory yard, managing retail inventory, automating shipping/receiving, or monitoring high-value assets—the answer is a definitive no.

In the world of industrial automation, the iPhone’s NFC is a precise, low-power drip. What businesses need is a firehose. That’s what dedicated UHF RFID readers from CYKEO provide: the power, range, and software integration to turn physical movement into reliable, scalable business intelligence. Don’t try to use a scalpel to cut down a tree.

CK-M1LX2 UHF Embedded RFID Modules

CK-M1LX2 UHF Embedded RFID Modules

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CYKEO Embedded RFID Modules are designed for compact industrial and IoT devices that require stable UHF performance. These UHF RFID Modules support global protocols, flexible power control, and reliable multi-tag reading for smart cabinets, production lines, and asset tracking systems.

CK-M1LX1 UHF Embedded RFID Module

CK-M1LX1 UHF Embedded RFID Module

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CYKEO Embedded RFID Module is built for compact IoT and industrial devices that need stable UHF performance. This UHF module supports global protocols, low power operation, and reliable multi-tag reading for smart lockers, production lines, and always-on RFID systems.

CK-M1 UHF Drone RFID Module

CK-M1 UHF Drone RFID Module

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CYKEO CK-M1 drone rfid module is a compact UHF RFID reader module designed for drones and UAV platforms. It supports long-range aerial scanning, fast multi-tag reading, and stable performance in wind, vibration, and outdoor environments.

CK-M4 4-Port RFID Module

CK-M4 4-Port RFID Module

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CYKEO CK-M4 RC522 RFID Module is an industrial-grade UHF RFID reader with 4 ports, supporting ISO, EPC, and GB protocols. High-speed, accurate reading for IoT, automation, and warehouse applications.

CK-M8 8-port RFID Module

CK-M8 8-port RFID Module

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CYKEO CK-M8 Module RFID is an 8-port UHF R2000 RFID Module designed for high-density, multi-tag environments. Stable 33dBm output, ISO & GB protocol support, ideal for warehouses, factories, and automated systems.

CK-M16 16-Port RFID Module

CK-M16 16-Port RFID Module

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CYKEO CK-M16 RFID Module is a 16-port UHF RFID reader module based on the R2000 chipset. Designed for dense tag environments, it supports ISO and GB standards and delivers stable multi-antenna control for industrial automation.

CK-M16L UHF 16-PORT  RFID Reader Module

CK-M16L UHF 16-PORT RFID Reader Module

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The CYKEO CK-M16L RFID Reader Module is a 16-channel UHF RFID core designed for dense tag environments. With adjustable 33dBm output, multi-protocol support, and stable multi-antenna control, this RFID Tag Reader Module fits industrial automation, warehouse systems, and large-scale IoT deployments.

CK-M8L 8-PORT UHF RFID Module

CK-M8L 8-PORT UHF RFID Module

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CYKEO CK-M8L module RFID is a compact industrial UHF module built for dense tag and multi-antenna environments. With 8 RF ports, adjustable 33 dBm output, and ISO & GB protocol support, it is widely used in factories, warehouses, and automated tracking systems.

CK-M4L 4-PORT UHF RFID Module

CK-M4L 4-PORT UHF RFID Module

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CYKEO CK-M4L UHF RFID Module is a compact 4-channel RFID tag reader module designed for dense tag environments. Supporting ISO and GB protocols, it delivers stable reads up to 10 meters for industrial and IoT systems.

CK-A11 11dBi UHF RFID Reader Antenna

CK-A11 11dBi UHF RFID Reader Antenna

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Cykeo CK-A11 UHF RFID reader antenna delivers 11dBi gain, 840-960MHz frequency range, and IP65 ruggedness for retail, logistics, and industrial RFID systems. Features low VSWR and easy installation.

​CK-A10 10.5dBi Antenna RFID Reader

​CK-A10 10.5dBi Antenna RFID Reader

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CYKEO Antenna RFID Reader delivers stable long-range UHF performance with a 10.5dBi directional design, built for warehouses, conveyor portals, and industrial RFID systems. This rfid reader antenna provides 20m+ read distance and rugged IP67 protection.

CK-PHF3 Smart HF RFID Antenna

CK-PHF3 Smart HF RFID Antenna

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Cykeo CK-PHF3 industrial HF RFID Antenna offers 24-point dynamic tracking, ISO 14443A/15693 protocols, metal-environment stability for archives/libraries/manufacturing.

CK-A5B 5dBi Industrial Linear RFID Antenna​

CK-A5B 5dBi Industrial Linear RFID Antenna​

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Cykeo CK-A5B industrial Linear RFID Antenna delivers 5dBi gain, ≤1.5:1 VSWR, and IP65 rugged design for warehouse, production line, and logistics UHF systems.

CK-B12 12dBi Long Range RFID Antenna

CK-B12 12dBi Long Range RFID Antenna

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Cykeo’s CK-B12 Long Range RFID Antenna delivers 15m+ read range with 12dBi gain, IP65 rugged design, and global 840-960MHz UHF support. Ideal for warehouse/logistics asset tracking.

CK-B10 10dBi Long Distance RFID Antenna​

CK-B10 10dBi Long Distance RFID Antenna​

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Cykeo CK-B10 Long Distance RFID Antenna offers 10dBi gain, 840-960MHz frequency range, IP65 rating, and 20m+ coverage for logistics/warehousing/ETC systems. Low VSWR ensures stable signal transmission.

CK-A6 6dBi Ultra-Thin RFID Panel Antenna

CK-A6 6dBi Ultra-Thin RFID Panel Antenna

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Cykeo CK-A6 UHF RFID panel antenna features 6dBi gain, 840-960MHz broadband, IP65 metal-ready housing for logistics/smart retail. 18mm ultra-thin design with tool-free mounting.

CK-A3  3dBi  Antenna RFID UHF

CK-A3 3dBi Antenna RFID UHF

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Cykeo CK-A3 industrial antenna RFID UHF offers 5m+ tag detection, ≤1.3:1 VSWR, IP65 rugged design, and global UHF spectrum compatibility (840-960MHz) for warehouses, factories, and retail.

CK-B5 5dBi UHF Directional  RFID Antenna

CK-B5 5dBi UHF Directional RFID Antenna

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Cykeo CK-B5 directional RFID antenna provides 5dBi gain with 60° narrow beamwidth for precise inventory tracking. IP65-rated, global UHF frequency support, and low VSWR.

CK-A5C 5dBi DIY RFID Antenna Kit

CK-A5C 5dBi DIY RFID Antenna Kit

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Create your own high-performance DIY RFID antenna! 5dBi gain, 840-960MHz tunable, step-by-step guides. Compatible with Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and commercial UHF readers.

CK-A7 7dBi UHF Flexible RFID Antenna

CK-A7 7dBi UHF Flexible RFID Antenna

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Cykeo CK-A7 Flexible RFID Antenna features 840-960MHz wideband tuning, 7dBi gain, and IP68 rating for medical/retail/industrial curved surface deployments. 98% read accuracy with peel-and-stick installation.

CK-B5A 5dBi Industrial Passive RFID Antenna

CK-B5A 5dBi Industrial Passive RFID Antenna

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Cykeo CK-B5A industrial Passive RFID Antenna delivers 5dBi gain, 70° beamwidth, and -40°C~55°C operation for warehouses/smart cabinets. Compatible with Zebra/Impinj readers.

CK-A9B 9dBi High Gain RFID Antenna​

CK-A9B 9dBi High Gain RFID Antenna​

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Cykeo’s CK-A9B High Gain RFID Antenna delivers 15m+ read range with 9dBi amplification. Features IP54 rugged design, 840-960MHz bandwidth, and 80° beamwidth for warehouse/manufacturing RFID systems.

CK-A8A 8dBi Impinj RFID Antenna

CK-A8A 8dBi Impinj RFID Antenna

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Cykeo’s enterprise-grade 8dbi Impinj RFID Antenna 10m+ read range with 840-960MHz tuning. Features IP65 housing, 1.4 VSWR, 35° beamwidth for retail/warehouse RFID systems.

CK-A9  9dBi UHF ​​RFID Antenna​

CK-A9 9dBi UHF ​​RFID Antenna​

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Cykeo CK-A9 industrial UHF RFID antenna delivers 9dBi gain, 840-960MHz frequency range, and IP65 protection for warehouse/logistics/retail RFID systems. Features N-type connector and ≤1.3:1 VSWR.

CK-A12 12dBi UHF RFID Antenna

CK-A12 12dBi UHF RFID Antenna

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CYKEO UHF RFID Antenna built for long-distance and industrial applications. This antenna rfid uhf delivers strong gain, outdoor durability, and reliable tag performance in warehouses, yards, and vehicle ID systems.

CK-A5 5dBi Antenna RFID Ultra

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CYKEO Antenna RFID delivers reliable long-range UHF performance in warehouses, retail shelves, and cold-chain environments. This compact uhf rfid antenna provides stable reads with circular polarization and ultra-wide 840–960 MHz support, ideal for industrial tracking, smart shelves, and asset monitoring.

CK-A8  8dBi Industrial RFID Antennas

CK-A8 8dBi Industrial RFID Antennas

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Cykeo’s CK-A8 UHF RFID antennas delivers 8dBi gain, 840-960MHz full-band coverage, and IP65 ruggedness for manufacturing/warehouse RFID systems. Industrial RFID Antennas Features

​​CK-A8 8dBi UHF RFID Antenna and Reader Combo

​​CK-A8 8dBi UHF RFID Antenna and Reader Combo

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Cykeo’s 8dBi UHF RFID antenna and reader kit delivers 10m+ range, 840-960MHz broadband, and IP65 ruggedness for factories, warehouses, and logistics. ISO 18000-6C & EPC Gen2 certified.

CK-A9A 9dBi UHF RFID Reader and Antenna Combo​

CK-A9A 9dBi UHF RFID Reader and Antenna Combo​

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Cykeo CK-A9A industrial UHF RFID reader and antenna kit delivers 10m range, 500 tags/sec, IP65 ruggedness for manufacturing/logistics. Supports EPC Gen2, ISO18000-6C.

CK-A12C 12dBi ​Large RFID Antenna

CK-A12C 12dBi ​Large RFID Antenna

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Cykeo’s CK-A12C UHF Large RFID Antenna delivers 12dBi gain, 840-960MHz global frequency, IP65 ruggedness for logistics/warehousing/automotive. 40° beamwidth ensures stable 15m+ tag reads.

CK-A5 5dBi Near Field RFID Antenna

CK-A5 5dBi Near Field RFID Antenna

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CYKEO Near Field RFID Antenna provides precise 5–30 cm reading for shelves, cabinets, and workstations. This compact rfid shelf antenna delivers stable short-range performance around metal and clutter, ideal for pharmacies, libraries, and electronics sorting.

CK-RA4L 4dBi Long Range RFID Reader

CK-RA4L 4dBi Long Range RFID Reader

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Cykeo’s industrial long range RFID reader delivers 20-meter scanning, 500+ tags/sec speed, and IP67 waterproof design for automated warehouses, logistics, and harsh environment applications.

CK-RA6L 6dBi UHF RFID Long Range Reader

CK-RA6L 6dBi UHF RFID Long Range Reader

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Cykeo’s CK-RA6L industrial RFID long range reader features 20m read distance, 500 tags/sec speed, and IP67 protection. Ideal for warehouse automation, manufacturing WIP tracking, and smart logistics. Supports ISO 18000-6C/6B protocols.

CK-RA9L 9dBi Long Range RFID Tag Reader

CK-RA9L 9dBi Long Range RFID Tag Reader

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CYKEO Long Range RFID Tag Reader built for outdoor and industrial operations. This Outdoor RFID Reader delivers 20m read distance, fast tag processing, and IP67 durability for wide-area tracking.

CK-RA12L 12dBi Long Range  RFID Reader

CK-RA12L 12dBi Long Range RFID Reader

2025-12-02

Cykeo CK-RA12L industrial Long Range RFID Reader delivers 20m read range, 200+ tags/sec scanning, and IP67 protection for manufacturing/logistics applications. Supports ISO 18000-6C/GB protocols.

Industrial Forklift RFID Reader​

Industrial Forklift RFID Reader​

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Cykeo CK-C1 industrial Forklift RFID Reader features 20m read range, 600 tags/sec scanning, Impinj R2000 chipset, and IP67 rugged design. Ideal for warehouse logistics and manufacturing. Supports ISO 18000-6C/6B protocols.

CK-R4 4-Port UHF RFID Fixed Reader

CK-R4 4-Port UHF RFID Fixed Reader

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Cykeo CK-R4 industrial UHF RFID Fixed Reader features 4 TNC ports, 400+ tags/sec speed, IP67 housing, and global frequency compliance for vehicle inspection, smart warehouse, and asset management systems.

CK-R4L 4-Port Fixed UHF RFID Reader

CK-R4L 4-Port Fixed UHF RFID Reader

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Cykeo’s CK-R4L 4-port Fixed UHF RFID Reader delivers 400 tags/sec scanning, ISO 18000-6C compliance, and IP65 protection. Ideal for warehouse automation, manufacturing WIP tracking, and logistics management.

CK-R8L 8-Port  Fixed RFID Reader

CK-R8L 8-Port  Fixed RFID Reader

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CYKEO CK-R8L Fixed RFID Reader with 8-port UHF design, Impinj-based RF core and up to 20m read range. An industrial Fixed RFID Reader for vehicle inspection, warehouse portals, smart manufacturing lines and secure access checkpoints.

CK-R16L 16-port UHF RFID Fixed Reader

CK-R16L 16-port UHF RFID Fixed Reader

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RFID Fixed Reader from CYKEO – the CK-R16L 16-port UHF fixed reader for warehouses, smart cabinets, and production lines. Long-range, multi-tag reading, stable performance for 24/7 industrial use.

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