July 12th, 2024

Apple will allow developers access to its NFC technology, avoiding an EU fine

Apple has agreed with the EU to share NFC technology with developers, avoiding a $40 billion antitrust fine. The deal allows third-party wallets as default apps, monitored for compliance. EU investigates Apple for Digital Markets Act violations.

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Apple will allow developers access to its NFC technology, avoiding an EU fine

Apple has reached an agreement with the European Union to provide developers access to its Near-Field Communication (NFC) technology for tap-and-go features. This move helps Apple avoid a potential antitrust fine of up to $40 billion. The agreement, lasting ten years, also includes allowing third-party wallets to be set as default apps on Apple devices, promoting competition in mobile payments. An independent monitor will ensure Apple complies with the terms across the European Economic Area. The European Commission's investigation into Apple began in 2020, accusing the tech giant of restricting rival mobile wallet developers' access to necessary technology. This agreement follows Apple's offer to open up its NFC technology and report to an independent reviewer in early 2024. The European Commission is still investigating Apple for potential violations of the Digital Markets Act related to App Store commissions. Apple faces the possibility of significant fines in this separate case, with a final ruling expected by March 2025.

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By @karmakaze - 3 months
So all that stuff about Apple protecting users doesn't hold up to missing out on profits. I thought Apple would have held out longer.
By @nox101 - 3 months
I'm a little confused what this means in practice vs what's there now.

I can add a CCard to my apple wallet and make it the default payment method. Does that involve Apple? I can also add public transportation passes and choose which one is the default. Does that involve Apple?

I do get that the Apple CCard itself seems to get special treatment in the Wallet but I'm not sure what else.

Note: I'm for more options. I don't like the idea that Apple and Google are inserting themselves between people and nearly every business. I'm just curious what you all envision seeing come out of this (positive examples)

By @sillysaurusx - 3 months
Hopefully vendors will implement some kind of universal wallet scheme that supports all options rather than encouraging vendors to only support one that they choose.

Is this only for the EU, or will Apple allow this worldwide? Maybe I missed it, but the article doesn't seem to say.

By @ramesh31 - 3 months
At what point does antitrust become protectionism? The EU loves to make these sweeping mandates in the name of consumer choice, when the result will be a worse product for everyone.