Until now, Apple Pay and Apple Wallet have had exclusive access to many features of the iPhone’s NFC chip, but that will change with iOS 18.1.
Apple is set to revolutionize the world of contactless payments with the release of iOS 18.1, which will allow developers to offer in-app NFC (Near Field Communication) transactions using the iPhone’s Secure Element. This long-awaited update not only expands the functionality of NFC technology on iPhones but also introduces the ability to set a default contactless payment app accessible via a double-click of the side button—an action previously reserved exclusively for Apple Pay.
This shift marks a significant change in Apple’s approach to its NFC capabilities, which have been tightly controlled until now. With the release of iOS 18.1, developers can integrate a wide range of in-app contactless transactions into their offerings. The possibilities are extensive, covering everything from in-store payments and car keys to closed-loop transit, corporate badges, student IDs, home and hotel keys, merchant loyalty programs, and event tickets.
Previously, third-party apps could only use NFC technology for reading tags, limiting the scope of what developers could achieve. The introduction of full NFC access for third-party apps opens up a world of opportunities for app developers and users alike. Imagine using your iPhone to unlock your car, access your office, or quickly pay for your morning coffee—all through third-party apps that now have the same capabilities as Apple Pay.
However, this expanded access comes with certain conditions. Developers who wish to take advantage of Apple’s new NFC APIs will need to “enter into a commercial agreement with Apple, request the NFC and SE entitlement, and pay the associated fees,” as detailed in Apple’s press release. Initially, these APIs will be available to developers in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, the UK, and the US, with more countries expected to follow. The press release also hints at future support for government IDs, further expanding the potential uses of this technology.
This move by Apple is not just a technological advancement but also a strategic response to regulatory pressures. The decision to open up iPhone NFC payments to third-party providers follows a European Commission antitrust investigation, which culminated in Apple making legally binding commitments to allow competition in this space. By expanding access to NFC technology, Apple is not only enhancing user experience but also addressing concerns about its market dominance.
In summary, iOS 18.1 is set to usher in a new era of contactless payment possibilities on the iPhone. As developers begin to explore the potential of NFC technology within their apps, users can look forward to a more versatile, convenient, and personalized experience. Whether it’s tapping to pay, unlocking doors, or managing digital IDs, the iPhone’s NFC capabilities are about to get a whole lot more exciting.
