Apple proposes NFC access for third-party providers in response to EU antitrust investigation

In a bid to address an ongoing European Commission antitrust investigation, Apple has offered concessions that would grant third-party mobile wallet and payment providers access to the iPhone's NFC capabilities.

If accepted, these proposals would put an end to Apple Pay and Apple Wallet's exclusive use of NFC payment features on iPhones in the European Economic Area (EEA). The move follows the Commission's accusation against Apple over a year and a half ago, alleging that the tech giant used its iOS policies to stifle competition in the mobile payments sector, violating EU law.

There's no indication that the obligations will extend to iPhone users or third-party wallet developers outside the EU, but the Commission's press release states that Apple's proposals would allow people with an Apple ID registered in the European Economic Area to make NFC payments using third-party apps outside the bloc.

If accepted, the commitments would remain in effect for ten years, with potential penalties, including fines of up to 10 percent of Apple's global annual turnover, for non-compliance.

The Commission is currently seeking feedback on these proposed commitments.