Apple opens up NFC access to developers, but at a cost
Until recently, iPhones' near-field communication (NFC) capabilities were largely restricted to Apple Pay and a few other Apple-approved functions. However, with the upcoming release of iOS 18.1, Apple is set to significantly expand NFC access for developers.
Developers will now be able to leverage the Secure Element (SE) on iOS devices to offer a wide range of NFC-based services, including in-store payments, car keys, transit passes, and more. This move comes after Apple reached a settlement with the European Commission over antitrust concerns related to its exclusive control over NFC payments on iPhones.