Smart Coasters FAQ.
Everything you need to know about our NFC Smart Coasters — what they are, how they’re made, and how to set up the tap-to-open link on any phone. Can’t find your answer? Reach out anytime.
About Smart Coasters
The quick answers on what they are, what they cost, and how to order.
What are Smart Coasters?
Smart Coasters are custom drink coasters embedded with an NFC tag. When tapped with a smartphone, they instantly connect customers to your menu, website, social media, promotions, or other digital content.
How do they work?
Customers simply tap the coaster with their smartphone — no app required. The coaster instantly opens the link you’ve chosen: a menu, video, booking page, and more.
Who are Smart Coasters for?
Restaurants, cafes, bars, breweries, salons, spas, retail shops, and content creators — anyone who wants to link a physical product to digital content.
Can I update the content later?
Yes! The NFC tag’s link can be updated anytime — so you can reuse the same coaster for different promotions, menus, or campaigns without reprinting.
How durable are the coasters?
They’re 3D printed with high-quality PLA or PETG and sealed with a protective polyurethane coating for durability and water resistance.
What customization options are available?
Company logos, colors, custom shapes and designs, NFC integration, and bulk or small orders — it’s built around your brand.
How do I get my logo or link added?
Simply send us your logo file and the URL/link (menu, website, social profile, video, etc.) you want embedded, and we’ll take care of the rest.
How long does it take to receive my order?
Typical turnaround time is 1–2 weeks, depending on order size and customization.
How much do Smart Coasters cost?
Most projects start between $5 – $20 per coaster, depending on order volume and selected features.
Do customers need a special app?
No — modern smartphones support NFC tap-to-open directly. Just tap and go. (Older phones can still scan the printed QR code.)
Using your NFC coasters
A plain-English guide to which phones work, turning NFC on, where to tap, and programming the link yourself.
Which phones work with NFC?
Almost every phone from the last several years supports NFC:
iPhone
- iPhone 7 and newer can read NFC tags.
- iPhone XS / XR and newer read a tag the instant you tap it — no app, nothing to open.
- Make sure the phone is unlocked and awake when you tap.
Android
- Most Android phones made in roughly the last 8–10 years have NFC built in.
- A few budget models leave NFC out — if you’re not sure, search “NFC” in your Settings (see below).
Not sure about your exact model? Tap the coaster and see — if nothing happens, the steps below usually fix it.
Do I need to turn NFC on first?
iPhone: No — NFC is always on. Just tap and go.
Android: Sometimes. Many Android phones ship with NFC switched off. To turn it on:
Open Settings → search “NFC” (or go to Connected devices → Connection preferences) → toggle NFC on. That’s a one-time setup — once it’s on, it stays on.
Where do I tap my phone on the coaster?
Every phone has its NFC antenna in a slightly different spot. Hold the phone flat against the coaster and, if it doesn’t read right away, slide it around slowly until it catches.
iPhoneTap the top edge of the phone
AndroidUsually the center of the back — varies by model
Thick cases or pop-sockets can block the signal — if tapping is stubborn, try removing the case.
How do I program or change the link myself? (NFC Tools app)
We set up your coasters before they ship, so they work right out of the box. But if you ever want to change the link yourself, the free NFC Tools app makes it easy — and our short video walks you through it.
Get the free NFC Tools app
Scan the code for your phone, or tap the button. Open the app, choose Write → Add a record → URL, type your link, then tap your coaster to save it.
Ready to put your brand on the table?
Send us your logo and the link you want customers to see — we’ll design your coaster and send a preview before printing.