Amiibo, the popular line of interactive figurines created by Nintendo, has gained a massive following since its introduction in 2014.
These collectible toys not only serve as decorative items but also unlock additional content in various Nintendo games.
However, purchasing multiple Amiibo figures can be costly, and some users may not have access to certain characters they desire.
Fortunately, there is a way to use your phone as an Amiibo without the need for an NFC (Near Field Communication) tag.
Use Phone As Amiibo Without NFC Tag?
Yes, you can use your phone as an Amiibo without an NFC tag by using an app like TagMo or JoyControl.
These apps allow you to write Amiibo data to your phone’s NFC chip, which you can then use to scan into games that support Amiibos.
However, =note that not all games support Amiibo emulation, and some games may have restrictions on how you can use emulated Amiibos.
Below we look deeper at the methods and tools available to achieve this, as well as the benefits and limitations of using your phone as an Amiibo.
Table of Contents
The Basics of Amiibo and NFC
Before diving into the details of using your phone as an Amiibo, it is essential to understand the basics of Amiibo and NFC technology.
Amiibo is a series of figurines that contain an NFC chip, allowing them to interact with compatible Nintendo games and devices.
NFC is a short-range wireless communication technology that enables the transfer of data between devices when they are in close proximity.
When an Amiibo figure is placed on an NFC reader, such as the one found on the Nintendo Switch or a compatible smartphone, it sends a unique identifier to the device.
This identifier is then used by the game or application to unlock specific content, such as new characters, costumes, or items.
Using Your Phone as an Amiibo
While Amiibo figures are the traditional way to interact with Nintendo games, there are alternative methods that allow you to use your phone as an Amiibo without the need for physical figurines.
Here are some popular methods:
1. AmiiBot App
The AmiiBot app is a popular choice for Android users who want to use their phone as an Amiibo.
This app emulates an NFC tag, allowing you to store and share Amiibo data directly from your phone. To use the AmiiBot app, follow these steps:
- Download and install the AmiiBot app from the Google Play Store.
- Launch the app and grant the necessary permissions.
- Select the desired Amiibo character from the app’s library.
- Place your phone near the NFC reader on your Nintendo Switch or compatible device.
- The AmiiBot app will transmit the Amiibo data to the device, unlocking the corresponding content in the game.
With the AmiiBot app, you can easily switch between different Amiibo characters without the need for physical figurines.
This method provides a cost-effective solution for those who want to expand their Amiibo collection without breaking the bank.
2. TagMo App
TagMo is a free Android app that allows you to write Amiibo data to NFC tags. It is a popular choice for people who want to use Amiibos but do not have the physical tags. TagMo is easy to use and supports a wide variety of Amiibo.
To use TagMo, you will need an Android phone with NFC and an NFC tag. You can purchase NFC tags online or at most electronics stores. Once you have the necessary supplies, follow these steps:
- Download and install TagMo from the Google Play Store.
- Open TagMo and tap the NFC tag to your phone.
- Select the Amiibo you want to write to the tag.
- Tap the “Write” button.
- Wait for TagMo to finish writing the data to the tag.
Once the writing process is complete, you can use the NFC tag to scan into games that support Amiibos.
3. JoyControl
JoyControl is a free open-source program that allows you to emulate Nintendo Switch controllers and Amiibos on Linux. It is a popular choice for people who want to use Amiibos on Linux or who want to customize their Switch controllers.
To use JoyControl, you will need a Linux computer with Bluetooth and a Bluetooth controller. You can use any Bluetooth controller, but a Switch Pro Controller is recommended. Once you have the necessary supplies, follow these steps:
- Install JoyControl from the GitHub repository.
- Connect your Bluetooth controller to your computer.
- Run JoyControl and select the controller you want to emulate.
- To emulate an Amiibo, select the “NFC” tab and click the “Load Amiibo” button.
- Select the Amiibo file you want to load and click the “Open” button.
Once you have loaded an Amiibo, you can use the “NFC” tab to scan it into games.
Which one should you use?
TagMo is a good choice for people who want to use Amiibos on Android devices.
It is easy to use and supports a wide variety of Amiibos.
JoyControl is a good choice for people who want to use Amiibos on Linux or who want to customize their Switch controllers.
It is more complex to use than TagMo, but it offers more features.
Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
However, it is important to note that sharing or downloading copyrighted Amiibo data files may infringe on intellectual property rights, so it is recommended to use this method responsibly.
The Benefits of Using Your Phone as an Amiibo
Using your phone as an Amiibo offers several benefits, including:
1. Cost Savings
Purchasing physical Amiibo figures can be expensive, especially if you want to collect a wide range of characters.
By using your phone as an Amiibo, you can save money by avoiding the need to purchase multiple figurines.
2. Convenience
Carrying around a collection of Amiibo figures can be cumbersome, especially when traveling.
With your phone as an Amiibo, you can easily switch between different characters without the need for physical figurines, making it more convenient to enjoy Amiibo functionality on the go.
3. Accessibility
Not all Amiibo figures are readily available in stores, and some may be limited edition or exclusive to certain regions.
By using your phone as an Amiibo, you can access a wider range of characters and content without being limited by availability or location.
The Limitations of Using Your Phone as an Amiibo
While using your phone as an Amiibo offers many advantages, there are also some limitations to consider:
1. Compatibility
Not all smartphones have NFC capabilities, which are necessary for emulating an Amiibo.
Before attempting to use your phone as an Amiibo, ensure that your device supports NFC technology.
2. Game Support
While many Nintendo games support Amiibo functionality, not all games are compatible.
Before using your phone as an Amiibo, check if the game you intend to play supports Amiibo features.
3. Data Availability
Obtaining Amiibo data files may require some effort, as they are not officially provided by Nintendo.
It is important to respect intellectual property rights and only use Amiibo data files that are legally obtained or shared by the community.
FAQs – Use Phone As Amiibo Without NFC Tag
1. Can I use my iPhone as an Amiibo?
No, iPhones do not currently support the necessary NFC functionality to emulate an Amiibo.
The methods mentioned in this article are primarily for Android devices.
2. Are there any risks involved in using my phone as an Amiibo?
Using your phone as an Amiibo does not pose any significant risks.
However, it is important to ensure that you obtain Amiibo data files legally and responsibly to avoid any copyright infringement issues.
3. Can I use my phone as an Amiibo with any Nintendo game?
No, not all Nintendo games support Amiibo functionality.
Before using your phone as an Amiibo, check if the game you intend to play has Amiibo features.
4. Can I use my phone as an Amiibo with other gaming consoles?
The methods mentioned in this article are primarily designed for use with Nintendo devices, such as the Nintendo Switch.
It may not be possible to use your phone as an Amiibo with other gaming consoles.
5. Can I use my phone as an Amiibo to unlock exclusive content?
Yes, using your phone as an Amiibo allows you to unlock exclusive content in compatible Nintendo games, just like using physical Amiibo figures.
6. Are there any legal implications of using my phone as an Amiibo?
As long as you obtain Amiibo data files legally and responsibly, there should be no legal implications.
However, sharing or downloading copyrighted Amiibo data files may infringe on intellectual property rights.
7. Can I use my phone as an Amiibo without an internet connection?
Yes, you can use your phone as an Amiibo without an internet connection. The necessary Amiibo data is stored locally on your device.
8. Can I use my phone as an Amiibo with older Nintendo consoles?
The methods mentioned in this article are primarily designed for use with newer Nintendo devices, such as the Nintendo Switch.
Compatibility with older Nintendo consoles may vary.
9. Can I use my phone as an Amiibo with third-party apps?
While the methods mentioned in this article primarily rely on third-party apps, it is important to ensure that you download and install these apps from trusted sources to avoid any security risks.
10. Can I use my phone as an Amiibo with multiple devices?
Yes, you can use your phone as an Amiibo with multiple devices as long as they have NFC capabilities and support Amiibo functionality.
11. Can I use my phone as an Amiibo to transfer data between devices?
No, using your phone as an Amiibo only allows you to emulate the Amiibo data and unlock corresponding content in games.
It does not enable direct data transfer between devices.
12. Can I use my phone as an Amiibo to create custom Amiibo characters?
Yes, by using the TagMo app and obtaining the necessary Amiibo data files, you can create custom Amiibo characters and use them with compatible Nintendo games.
13. Can I use my phone as an Amiibo with online multiplayer games?
Using your phone as an Amiibo should not affect your ability to play online multiplayer games.
However, the specific game’s online functionality may vary.
14. Can I use my phone as an Amiibo with non-Nintendo games?
The methods mentioned in this article are primarily designed for use with Nintendo games. Compatibility with non-Nintendo games may vary.
15. Can I use my phone as an Amiibo with older versions of Android?
The compatibility of the AmiiBot and TagMo apps may vary depending on the version of Android you are using.
It is recommended to check the app’s requirements before installation.
Summary
Using your phone as an Amiibo without the need for an NFC tag provides a cost-effective and convenient way to enjoy Amiibo functionality.
Apps like AmiiBot and TagMo allow you to emulate Amiibo data, unlocking exclusive content in compatible Nintendo games.
While there are limitations to consider, such as device compatibility and game support, using your phone as an Amiibo offers numerous benefits, including cost savings, convenience, and accessibility to a wider range of characters.
By using your phone as an Amiibo, you can enhance your gaming experience without the need for physical figurines.
