What an NFC review tag does
An NFC review tag is a small passive tag with a chip and antenna. It stores a short NDEF-formatted URL. When an NFC-enabled phone reads the tag, the operating system offers to open that URL.
A basic review tag can point directly to a Google review link. A managed tag can point to an editable venue page that keeps the review action beside menus, reservations, events, social profiles, and other guest links.
What happens during a tap
The tag does not pair over Bluetooth, join Wi-Fi, or install software. The phone energizes the passive tag at very close range, reads the stored URL, and opens it using the phone's normal web or supported app experience.
On recent iPhones, the guest wakes the screen and holds the top edge near the tag. NFC-enabled Android phones generally read from the back while unlocked, although NFC may need to be enabled. Antenna position and availability vary by device, model, and region.
NDEF is the cross-platform format
NDEF is the NFC Forum data format used for common records such as web URLs. Android requires NFC devices to support the standard NFC Forum tag types and NDEF operations, which is why an ordinary HTTPS URL is the safest payload for a venue deployment.
The useful distinction is between the URL stored on the chip and the destination shown after it opens. When the chip stores a stable managed URL, the page behind it can change without rewriting every tag.
How a Tap review tag differs from a blank tag
A blank tag is raw hardware. Someone still needs to obtain the destination URL, write the NDEF record, test the tag, label the placement, and decide what happens when the destination changes.
Tap ships tags assigned and programmed for the venue. The operator controls the guest page and its links in the dashboard, while Tap keeps the physical URL stable.
| Capability | Blank tag | Tap |
|---|---|---|
| Programming | Owner writes and tests it | Programmed and QA-checked before shipping |
| Destination changes | May require rewriting | Edit the venue page in the dashboard |
| Guest experience | Usually one raw link | Venue page with reviews and other links |
| Activity | No built-in reporting | Tap and link activity in the dashboard |
Where venues use NFC review tags
Restaurants commonly start with dining tables, the host stand, check presenters, patios, and pickup counters. Bars use high tops, booths, lounge tables, the door, and the bar itself.
Metal can interfere with an ordinary NFC tag, so metal bar tops and similar surfaces need an on-metal tag. Every final placement should be tested with more than one phone before service.
What Tap includes
Tap includes 20 Tap Tags, the programmed tags, venue page, and dashboard. 20 Tap Tags included. Extra tags from $8 each, less at volume. Custom tags are available exclusively with annual plans.
Monthly plans add a one-time hardware fee and annual plans waive it. The pricing page remains the source for current plan details.