A California-based startup is seeking US$8,000 by 1 February in order to put into production nfcTack and nfcPad, two new NFC tag products that use "nano suction" pads to attach to surfaces — rather than standard adhesives that can leave marks when they are removed.

COMING UNSTUCK: nfcTack aims to make sticky residue a thing of the past

"In a mobile environment, NFC tag locations change often and NFC stickers need to be changeable, removable and reusable," the team says.

The nfcTack uses "a durable polymer NFC tag with nano suction pad that can be removed and reused," says the startup. "nfcTack utilizes nano suction pad from an original manufacturer who developed nano suction technology."

The larger nfcPad is designed to hold a device as well as provide NFC functionality. "The nfcPad can hold a device up to 2lbs (1kg) under ideal conditions, but the rated safe-working load is limited to 7oz (200g)," the team explains.

A video shows nfcTack and nfcPad in a variety of scenarios:

"We wanted a simple yet robust solution — a single trigger that can change your phone settings wherever you are and evolve with your needs and smartphone technology," the team says.

"We evaluated many NFC form factors including NFC stickers, NFC cards, NFC rings and NFC bracelets, but the NFC tag with nano suction pad was the most versatile for our multiple applications."

"When the nano suction becomes soiled with dust or grease, it can be cleaned and its suction adhesion revived," they add. "The prototype nano suction is durable; we have tested nano suction for two years."

The project has currently raised over a quarter of its target with 18 days to go. Various nfcTack and nfcPad kits are available, with prices starting at US$13.