UK watchdog says Apple still makes it too hard for Apple Pay rivals
British regulators claim Apple blocks payment app rivals.
The short version
- The tech giant makes chip access too difficult.
- High fees and strict rules stop new competitors.
- Regulators opened a public consultation to force changes.
- UK shoppers may soon get more wallet choices.
Why it matters to you. For business owners and shoppers, these ongoing regulatory battles mean you might eventually see alternative digital wallets competing at the cash register.
Apple, the maker of the iPhone, is facing fresh pressure in the United Kingdom over its contactless payment system. Sarah Cardell, the chief executive of the UK’s antitrust watchdog known as the Competition and Markets Authority, said developers still face high fees and strict terms when trying to build alternatives to Apple Pay.
According to 9to5Mac, regulators claim that Apple makes it too difficult for challengers to innovate and compete using the near-field communication chip inside iPhones. For years, only the built-in Apple Wallet could use that chip for tap payments, triggering antitrust probes across the globe.
While the European Union forced Apple to open the chip without charging fees, British authorities say local developers are not getting the same fair terms. Apple rejected the regulatory proposal, stating that forced changes could lower privacy and security protections for users.
The watchdog has now launched a public consultation to loosen Apple's grip on the payment hardware. Watch this space as regulators try to pry open the most valuable pocket in your store.
