UK Regulators Demand Apple Open Up iPhone NFC Payments
The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has proposed requiring Apple to open up iPhone NFC and Wallet access to international contactless payment standards and significantly reduce fees, arguing that its rules hinder innovation for UK fintech firms. The CMA notes that while 39% of payments in the UK are already contactless and Apple Wallet is the most popular, no competing product has been launched; the consultation period runs until November 17, 2026. Apple opposes the move, stating…
The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has proposed requiring Apple to open up the iPhone's NFC and Wallet permissions to international contactless payment standards and significantly reduce its fees, arguing that its rules hinder innovation for UK fintech companies.
The CMA states that while 39% of payments in the UK are already contactless and Apple Wallet is the most popular option, no company has been able to launch a competing product. The consultation period runs until November 17, 2026. Apple has objected, claiming that the current setup already allows developers to securely offer contactless transactions within their apps.
Source: Engadget
