The UK's CMA plans to require Apple to open iPhone NFC and reduce fees

According to Engadget, the UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has issued a proposal requiring Apple to open access to NFC contactless payment on the iPhone and significantly reduce related fees. The CMA stated that Apple's fees and rules hinder the innovation and development of fintech companies in the UK. Currently, 39% of payments in the UK are made via contactless methods, with Apple Wallet being the most used.

Unlike the European Union, no company in the UK has launched a competing wallet product against Apple so far. The CMA proposed that Apple open Wallet access to international mainstream contactless standards, with the CMA setting the fee principles without directly pricing them. Apple has expressed opposition, stating that it should not be required to adopt solutions with weaker privacy and security protections. The consultation will close on November 17.