Apple isn’t just opening up access to Near Field Communication (NFC). In the European Union; Offers third-party access to features such as tap-to-pay in the US and other regions. Company placed announcement on Wednesday announcing that third-party developers will be able to start implementing their own contactless operating systems via API in the upcoming iOS 18.1.
The move follows Apple A “legally binding” agreement with the European Commission last month to comply with EU regulations, particularly the Digital Markets Act (DMA). It follows a four-year investigation by the governing body that found Apple was responsible for limiting rival mobile wallet developers’ access to the iPhone’s core payment technology.
As soon as iOS 18.1 arrives, developers can offer contactless payments (and other transactions) using the iPhone’s Secure Element. Apple Pay also uses The Secure Element is a special chip designed to store sensitive data accessed through the Secure Enclave, which manages encryption and biometrics.
In addition to tap-to-pay systems, it handles functions such as NFC digital car keys, transit cardsis appropriate house locks, hotel keys, student ID cardsevent tickets and retail loyalty and rewards cards. Apple says government ID cards “will be supported in the future”.
Once developers enable NFC apps, you’ll be able to use secure hardware either by opening the app directly or by setting third-party software as the default contactless app in iOS settings. After doing the latter, double-clicking the side button (as with Apple Pay) will trigger the transaction.
The API will initially be available in the US and EU regions, as well as Australia, Brazil, Canada, Japan and New Zealand.
To participate, developers must “enter into a commercial agreement with Apple,” claim NFC and Secure Enclave rights, and “pay associated fees.” Of course, Apple Pay and Apple Wallet will be available even if competing systems are invited to the company’s software.
