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.
- UK regulator proposes wider access to Apple’s contactless payment tech.
- It says lower fees could help fintech firms compete.
- Apple warns that changes could weaken privacy and security.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Opening iPhone contactless access could let more UK providers offer payment, travel and ticketing services, giving users greater choice and encouraging competition and innovation. If Apple’s rules and fees make it difficult for rivals to compete, proportionate access requirements could address that barrier while preserving safeguards.
The case against
Apple can argue that controlling access to a sensitive payment feature helps it maintain consistent privacy and security protections across the iPhone, and that broader third-party access could create new risks. It may also contend that its current arrangements already enable useful services, so regulatory intervention could disrupt a system that works for users and constrain its ability to set terms for its technology.
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Originally published by BBC Technology as “UK asks Apple to widen access to its payment tech”.