UK Watchdog Pushes Apple to Share Iphone NFC Technology

WHO:

Engadget - Apple is the company whose iPhone contactless NFC access is being targeted by the UK regulator.

Techmeme/Reuters - The UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is proposing measures concerning Apple’s contactless technology.

Techmeme/Reuters - Paul Sandle is identified as the Reuters reporter.

WHAT:

Engadget - The UK is targeting Apple’s “near-monopoly” on contactless NFC smartphone payments.

Techmeme/Reuters - The CMA proposed requiring Apple to provide easier access to its contactless technology and reduce access fees.

Techmeme/Reuters - The CMA said it was seeking to loosen Apple’s grip on contactless payments.

WHERE:

Engadget - The regulator’s action concerns the UK.

Techmeme/Reuters - The competition regulator is Britain’s CMA.

WHEN:

Techmeme/Reuters - The consultation deadline is “November 17.”

(UPDATED October 21, 2026 01:30 UTC)

Britain’s competition regulator is proposing measures to loosen Apple’s grip on contactless smartphone payments, which it describes as a near-monopoly. The plan would make it easier for companies to access Apple’s contactless technology and would reduce access fees. The CMA is consulting on the proposals until November 17.