DPI Labs has once again pushed the boundaries of technology in business aviation with the launch of its latest innovation: Near Field Communication (NFC) app-less passenger cabin control. NFC technology offers a seamless, wireless experience that allows passengers to control their cabin environment from their personal devices.

Since pioneering the integrated cabin management system in the 1980s, which introduced streamlined communication between switch panels and power modules within the aircraft cabin, DPI Labs has continually transformed how passengers interact with their environment. Passengers can now bypass traditional physical control panels and simply use their smartphone or tablet to manage functions such as lighting, entertainment and audio-video settings. With a quick tap on an embedded NFC chip, a user-friendly intranet site opens, providing access to all cabin controls directly through the browser on their devices, with no need for an app. NFC technology, already widely adopted in consumer devices for applications such as contactless payments and wireless data sharing, is now making its way into the skies.

“We're proud to be the first to introduce NFC technology to the business aviation market,” says Martin Hamilton, vice president of business development. “This innovation allows passengers wireless control over their cabin environment, bringing new levels of convenience and elegance to the flying experience.”

This app-less solution offers unparalleled simplicity, eliminating the need for additional hardware or software updates. Passengers with any iOS or Android device can immediately control their surroundings by interacting with the NFC-enabled system.

NFC control can be deployed throughout the cabin, from individual seating areas to entertainment systems and beyond. This wireless technology allows passengers the freedom to make adjustments from anywhere in the cabin.

Following several successful installations in 2024 across Gulfstream, Bombardier and Dassault platforms, DPI Labs has proven the flexibility and scalability of NFC for modern cabin management. It is showcasing the NFC technology at NBAA-BACE.

The company is also unveiling the first ‘aviationised’ Apple TV, which has been flying on an Airbus A319 since its first installation in 2024. It is powered by 28VDC and rigorously tested to meet DO-160 standards in a fan-less, silent design. The aerospace version adds aviation-specific features such as 28VDC power and a 250ms power hold-up for power interruption. It ships with a Certificate of Conformity (CFC) and is fully ready for permanent installation in aircraft. Additionally, it plans to have the product PMA-certified by the end of the first quarter 2025.

This aviation-ready Apple TV retains all the features of its consumer counterpart, allowing passengers to cast their audio and video directly to the in-flight entertainment system via Airplay. Apple TV includes Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, AI audio enhancement and spacial Bluetooth headphone audio playback, significantly enhancing media playback quality and experience. Users can also access their personal content libraries, and the system works in tandem with DPI Labs Multi-Media Server, enabling the retrieval and playback of stored content on board. Moreover, it supports Digital Rights Management content streaming when paired with high-speed data services like Starlink.

This launch comes at an opportune time, aligning with the rapid adoption of high-speed data installations across the aviation industry. As airlines and private operators rush to equip their fleets with systems like Starlink for superior connectivity, DPI Labs’ Apple TV solution is a perfect companion. With its robust features and seamless integration into aircraft systems, this product is an ideal fit for both retrofit and new installations, as long as the aircraft’s entertainment system includes an HDMI input.

“We’re committed to bridging the gap between consumer technology and aviation, making the passenger experience as seamless and enjoyable as possible,” says Hamilton. “With our aviationised Apple TV, we’re excited to bring the convenience and entertainment that customers enjoy at home into the skies, while maintaining the rigorous standards and reliability required for aviation use.”