Apple has announced that starting with iOS 18.1 later this year, iPhone users will be able to use NFC contactless transactions through third-party apps. This feature extends the NFC capabilities introduced earlier in the European Union.
NFC and Secure Element Integration
With iOS 18.1, developers will be able to use NFC contactless transactions within their apps, separate from Apple Pay and Apple Wallet.
The new NFC and Secure Element (SE) APIs will support in-app transactions for in-store payments, car keys, transit, corporate badges, student IDs, home and hotel keys, loyalty cards, and event tickets, with government IDs available in the future.
Security and Privacy
Apple emphasizes user security and privacy with this update. NFC transactions will use the Secure Element, a certified chip designed for secure data storage, along with Apple’s proprietary technologies like Secure Enclave, biometric authentication, and Apple servers to protect user information.
How It Works
Users can initiate transactions by either opening the app directly or setting it as their default contactless app in iOS Settings. To complete a transaction, users will double-click the side button on their iPhone.
Developer Access
Developers wishing to use the new APIs will need to enter a commercial agreement with Apple, request the NFC and SE entitlement, and pay associated fees. This process ensures that only authorized developers who meet industry and regulatory standards can access the APIs.
Availability
The NFC and SE APIs will be accessible to developers in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, the U.K., and the U.S. with the upcoming developer seed for iOS 18.1, with additional regions to be added in the future.