Apple's docs for Background Tag Reading state clearly that:
...be aware there are times when the display is on and background tag reading is unavailable, such as if [...] Airplane mode is enabled.
Is anyone aware of the actual reason behind this restriction?
Consider these examples:
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User A visits a different country and doesn't have local cell service. They use WiFi to access the internet, but keep airplane mode on to avoid expensive roaming charges. They apparently need to pay roaming fees in order to scan an NFC tag.
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User B is actually on a plane (literally the reason for airplane mode). They strike up a conversation with their seatmate, who wants to share contact info using an NFC business card. It won't work until the flight lands.
In both of these cases, airplane mode is restricting what seem to be harmless attempts to scan a tag. Further, users don't commonly understand this restriction, and I am at a loss for how to explain Apple's reasoning to frustrated customers.
Does anyone have a good explanation they could share?