CMA proposes broader iPhone contactless payments access and lower fees

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is proposing that Apple let more UK apps use the iPhone’s contactless payment technology and charge firms substantially lower fees. It says Apple’s current rules and charges are holding back competition and innovation, while opening access could give users more payment, travel and ticketing options.

The proposals would let apps use Host Card Emulation, a widely used contactless standard that Apple currently does not allow in the UK. Nearly two in five payments are contactless and almost 60% of people use digital wallets, with Apple’s the most popular. Apple says wider access could weaken privacy and security, and argues its existing arrangements already support innovation; the CMA says it is consulting on access requirements rather than setting prices or terms.