NXP Semiconductors has announced the launch of UCODE X, a new RAIN RFID chip designed to deliver high read and write sensitivity, flexible configuration options, and ultra-low power consumption. The solution enables the use of smaller RFID labels and supports high-volume applications across retail, logistics, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and other industries.
As regulatory requirements around traceability and consumer safety continue to evolve—such as the EU Digital Product Passport and US FSMA 204—UCODE X allows critical product data, including batch numbers, expiration dates, and recycling details, to be stored directly on the chip. This capability helps organisations meet compliance needs while maintaining speed, accuracy, and operational efficiency.
Ralf Kodritsch, Senior Director, UCODE RFID at NXP, said the new chip expands the practical use of RAIN RFID by combining advanced RF performance with flexible memory options. He added that the technology makes it possible to tag even challenging products such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food items, supporting broader adoption across industries.
Industry partners highlighted the impact of the new solution on real-time inventory visibility and operational reliability. According to Danny Haak, Head of Product & Technology at Nedap, UCODE X enables dependable continuous overhead reading, supporting scalable daily operations rather than limited pilot projects. Michael Fein, Director of Product Management at Zebra Technologies, noted that the chip’s compliance with the GS1 Gen2V2 standard strengthens ecosystem interoperability and supports next-generation RFID solutions.
UCODE X is designed to improve performance in applications such as inventory tracking, loss prevention, expiration monitoring, self-checkout, and regulatory compliance. Built on the open GS1 Gen2V2 standard, it ensures broad compatibility with existing RFID readers and encoders, including support for the Untraceable command to protect consumer privacy. With flexible memory configurations and support for smaller inlays, UCODE X also helps reduce material usage, contributing to more sustainable labeling solutions. The product is available now.
NXP Semiconductors NV (NASDAQ: NXPI) provides advanced solutions for automotive, industrial and IoT, mobile, and communications infrastructure markets. Operating in more than 30 countries, the company reported revenue of $12.61 billion in 2024 and continues to focus on technologies that enable a safer, more connected world.
