UK Regulator Proposes Opening iPhone Contactless Technology to Rivals

Britain's Competition and Markets Authority opened a consultation on October 20 on proposals to give rival businesses broader access to iPhone contactless technology. Apple would have to offer host-based card emulation alongside secure-element access, expanding technical options for payment wallets and other services. The regulator proposes principles for determining fees and commercial terms, rather than setting prices directly, and expects substantially lower charges while fairly compensating Apple. It says the changes could support account-to-account payments, digital IDs, travel passes and digital keys. Responses are due by November 17, before a final decision.