Apple Opens Up NFC Access to Avoid Antitrust Suit in the EU

 

In response to the European Union's Digital Markets Act, Apple has agreed to open its iPhone's NFC functionalities to third-party developers. This move follows Apple's earlier decision to allow third-party marketplaces in the App Store. Now, users in the EU can choose from various wallets and payment methods, such as Samsung Wallet and Google Wallet, and set these apps as defaults.

European Commission Vice-President Margrethe Vestager highlighted that Apple’s restriction of NFC payments to its built-in options was unjustified, as NFC is a standardized technology available for free. Vestager cited three main reasons for Apple's dominance necessitating this change:

1.   Apple’s significant market position in smart mobile devices.

2.   Its dominance in the NFC functionalities market and mobile wallets for iPhones.

3.   Apple’s refusal to grant rival wallet developers access to NFC technology on iPhones.

To enhance user experience, Apple will enable easy functionalities like setting default apps, quick access through double-clicking the Side Button, and Face ID authentication. This commitment aims to foster fair competition and innovation in the mobile payments sector within the EU.