RFID: Past, Present, Future

This article surveys recent technical research and achievements in the field of RFID (Radio Frequency IDentification). Article also helps entering and better understanding the world of RFID systems. RFID tags are small, wireless devices that help identify objects and people. Thanks to dropping cost, they are likely to proliferate into the billions in the next several years – and eventually into the trillions. RFID tags track objects in supply chains, and are working their way into the pockets, belongings and even the bodies of consumers. This survey examines current status and future approaches proposed by scientists for possible usage of RFID systems, and treats the social and technical context of their work. While geared toward the non-specialist, the survey may also serve as a reference for specialist readers.