Apple is expanding Near-Field Communication (NFC) access in the European Union and offering third-party access to functions like tap-to-pay in the US and other regions. The company announced that third-party developers can implement their own contactless transaction systems through an API in the upcoming iOS 18.1. This move follows Apple’s agreement with the European Commission to comply with EU regulations, specifically the Digital Markets Act, after a four-year investigation found Apple liable for restricting rival mobile wallet developers’ access to the iPhone’s payment tech. Developers will soon be able to offer contactless payments and other transactions using the iPhone’s Secure Element, a dedicated chip designed for storing sensitive information. NFC also handles functions like digital car keys, transit cards, home locks, hotel keys, student IDs, event tickets, and retail loyalty and reward cards. Apple plans to support government IDs in the future. Once developers have their NFC apps live, users can use the secure hardware by opening the app directly or setting the third-party software as the default contactless app in iOS settings. The API will be available initially in the US and EU regions, as well as in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Japan, and New Zealand. Developers interested in participating will need to enter into a commercial agreement with Apple, request NFC and Secure Enclave entitlements, and pay associated fees. Apple Pay and Apple Wallet will continue to be available alongside other systems invited into the company’s software.
