Apple is expanding access to iPhone's NFC capabilities by allowing third-party developers to create apps for contactless payments and other NFC transactions. This change will be implemented with the release of iOS 18.1 and will open up new opportunities for users and developers.
The NFC Revolution
What's New in iOS 18.1
With With the release of the iOS 18.1 update, Apple is taking a significant step towards expanding NFC functionality on the iPhone. Developers will now be able to integrate NFC transactions directly into their applications using Secure Element. Additionally, users will be able to select their preferred contactless payment app, which will be activated by double tapping the side button of the device.
Wide range of applications
This innovation opens the door to creating a variety of applications using NFC technology. Potential applications include in-store payments, digital car keys, travel cards, corporate passes, student ID cards, house and hotel keys, loyalty cards and even event tickets. Apple also announced future support for government ID.
Developer Availability
The new APIs will be made available to developers in a number of countries, including Australia, Brazil, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, the UK and the US, in the upcoming iOS 18.1 beta. The list of countries will be expanded later. However, to use these APIs, developers will need to enter into a commercial agreement with Apple, apply for NFC and SE access rights, and pay the applicable fees.
Background of changes
This decision by Apple follows the company's proposal to open access to NFC payments on iPhone to third-party providers in response to antitrust investigation by the European Commission. Last month, the European Commission officially approved Apple's commitments on this issue.
Glossary
- Apple Pay is a payment system from Apple for making purchases using devices Apple.
- NFC (Near Field Communication) is a short-range wireless data transmission technology.
- iOS is an operating system for mobile devices developed by Apple.
- Secure Element - a secure component in devices used to store confidential information.
- API (Application Programming Interface) - a set of tools for software development.
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Questions Answered
What changes are expected in iOS 18.1 regarding NFC functions?
For what purposes can NFC functions be used in third-party applications?
In which countries will the APIs for developing NFC applications be available?
What conditions must developers meet to use the new NFC features?
Why did Apple decide to open up NFC functionality to third-party developers?
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Discussion of the topic – Apple opens up NFC: a revolution in iOS 18.1 for developers and users
Apple is announcing significant changes in iOS 18.1, opening up the NFC chip to third-party developers and allowing users to choose a default contactless payment app.
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Sophia
Wow, this is a revolution in the world of iOS! 🤯 Finally, Apple opens access to NFC. I wonder how this will affect the mobile payments market?
Hans
Yes, Sophia, this is a big step forward! I think we will see a surge in innovation in contactless payments. Imagine how many new opportunities this opens up for developers! 🚀
Amélie
Sounds great! But I wonder how secure these third party apps will be? Apple has always been famous for its data security. 🔒
Hans
Amélie, good question! Apple mentions Secure Element, so security should be top notch. Plus, developers will need to enter into an agreement with Apple. I think they will carefully check each application.
Diego
Guys, did you notice that this change occurred after the EU antitrust investigation? It looks like Apple had to make concessions. I wonder how this will affect their business model? 🤔
Giovanni
Blah blah blah, another hype around unnecessary functions. I still use cash and feel great. All these newfangled things only make life more difficult. 😒
Sophia
Giovanni, I understand your skepticism, but technology really can make life easier. For example, I forgot my wallet at home, but was able to pay for lunch using my phone. It's convenient! 😊
Karolina
What interested me most was the possibility of using NFC for house and hotel keys! Can you imagine how this will make traveling easier? No more lost key cards! 🏨🔑