Connecthings has announced that it will deploy NFC-based information services in the cities of Barcelona, Hamburg, Rio de Janeiro and Derry, Northern Ireland.

The four cities are launching NFC services as part of the Living Labs Global Awards, a project that involves 21 cities over five continents seeking to solve issues in areas as diverse as health care, mobility, security, education, tourism, urban management and the reduction of CO2 emissions.

According to Connecthings, over 700 companies submitted proposals for this year’s awards, but each city could only choose one solution.

The projects are as follows:

• Barcelona will deploy contactless services designed to improve citizens and worldwide visitors’ “global digital experience” within the city.

• Hamburg, the second largest port in Europe, will offer NFC services for encouraging the 270,000 cruise passengers to spend more time in exploring the city.

• Rio de Janeiro will set up a service targeted toward disadvantaged local communities that will work with the city’s “Knowledge Square” project to increase “digital inclusion” via urban, technological and social reforms.

• Finally, Derry will offer NFC services for improving and varying the global experience within the city, and promoting the cultural and touristic heritage to visitors and locals.