In the ongoing EU antitrust case, Apple has been accused of restricting competitors' use of its tap-and-go technology, Near-Field Communication (NFC), creating barriers for them to develop similar services on Apple devices.
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Recent reports suggest that Apple is now willing to open up access to its tap-and-go mobile payment systems, used for mobile wallets, potentially resolving the EU antitrust charges and avoiding a substantial fine.
The EU competition enforcer argued that Apple's limitations unfairly favored its own mobile wallet, Apple Pay, on iPhones and iPads, emphasizing Apple's substantial market influence in smart mobile devices and dominance in the mobile wallet sector.
Next month, the European Commission may gather input from competitors and customers to decide whether to accept Apple's offer. However, the timing and confirmation of this market test remain subject to change.
Widely utilized, Apple Pay is employed by over 2,500 banks in Europe and more than 250 fintechs and challenger banks. The NFC chip facilitates convenient tap-and-go payments on iPhones and iPads.
Apple is also facing a separate charge related to impeding companies like Spotify from informing users about alternative purchasing options outside its App Store, a case originating from 2020. The Commission is expected to make a decision next year, potentially involving a fine and an order to cease this practice.
Companies found guilty of violating EU antitrust rules could be subjected to fines of up to 10% of their global annual turnover.
