UK regulator pushes Apple to open iPhone payment systems to rivals

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority has put forward regulatory recommendations that would require Apple to broaden access to its near-field communication technology used for contactless payments on iPhones. The move seeks to reduce the cost and complexity currently faced by rival digital wallet providers attempting to offer payment services on Apple devices.

Under the proposed framework, multiple wallet providers would gain equivalent access to the iPhone's contactless payment infrastructure, rather than Apple maintaining preferential treatment for its own Apple Pay service. Regulators argue this would foster genuine competition and give consumers greater choice in how they conduct transactions through their mobile devices.

The intervention reflects growing international scrutiny of Apple's control over its ecosystem. Similar regulatory pressures have emerged in the European Union and other markets, where authorities have questioned whether the tech giant's restrictions on payment system access constitute anti-competitive practices.

Apple has previously argued that its restrictions serve security and privacy purposes, ensuring that sensitive payment data remains protected through its controlled environment. The company is expected to respond to the UK watchdog's proposals during the regulatory consultation period.