The European Union (EU) Commission is set to approve Apple’s previously announced policy changes regarding access to the Near Field Communication (NFC) chip on the iPhone. The official announcement of the commission’s decision is expected in the coming weeks.
These changes will allow apps to become the default wallet app that appears when users double-click the side button or hold their phone near a payment terminal. However, this policy relaxation only applies to apps available inside the European Union, not worldwide.
Until now, Apple has strictly controlled access to the NFC contactless chip on the iPhone, citing user experience, privacy, and security concerns. This has allowed Apple Pay to become the de facto contactless payment option on the iPhone, with virtually no competition.
From a customer-facing perspective, users will be able to download alternative apps and select them as their default contactless payments app on their device. This will then allow the app to replace system features typically associated with Apple Pay, like near-field activation and double-click activation.
However, it won’t be an unrestricted free-for-all. App developers must request an entitlement from Apple to get these privileges. They must meet various industry standards and hold appropriate licenses to handle consumer payments to be eligible. Despite these changes, Apple Pay remains a popular choice among users.
Read more at: 9to5mac.com