I've been exploring the possibilities using NFC tags.

NFC (Near Field Communication) tags are small, programmable microchips that store data which a smartphone or other NFC-enabled device can read when held nearby. They are inexpensive, require no battery (they draw power from the phone's magnetic field), and can be used to automate tasks or share information instantly.

I've been using them to automate my home life more effectively.

This project involves a tag incorporated into my bathroom phone holder. When I place my phone in the holder, it automatically opens up my Oral-B toothbrush app to record any activity. There is no reason for me to locate the app on my phone, sign in or press any other buttons, I just need to unlock the screen beforehand.

Tags come in many forms, are very inexpensive and do make certain tasks much easier to perform. Like a shortcut on your phone, except you just touch a tag with an NFC-enabled phone.