Apple is set to open up its NFC chip to third-party developers, allowing iPhone users to make contactless payments and perform other NFC functions outside of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet. This new feature, debuting with iOS 18.1, will enable apps to offer in-store payments, car keys, corporate badges, student IDs, home keys, hotel keys, etc.
Users can activate these features with a double-click on the side button of their iPhone, similar to Apple Pay. However, developers must enter a commercial agreement with Apple and pay associated fees to access the NFC and Secure Enclave (SE) APIs.
Initially, this feature will be available in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, the UK, and the US, with plans to expand to additional regions later.
This move is part of Apple's broader strategy to comply with regulatory demands, particularly in the European Union, where Apple has faced antitrust scrutiny over its NFC exclusivity.