iOS 17.4 was released last month, bringing significant changes for iPhone owners in the UK. This includes the exciting new ability to utilize third-party app stores and make payments for apps and services outside of Apple’s App Store.
These changes were enforced by the European Digital Markets Act, which compelled Apple to allow these new features. Otherwise, they may never have been implemented. A similar ‘walled garden’ scenario has been Apple’s limitation of NFC functionality for payments exclusively to Apple Pay. However, this is set to change in the UK, possibly as early as next month.
According to sources familiar with the matter who spoke to Reuters, Apple has offered to open up the tap-to-pay NFC feature to allow contactless payments with third-party mobile wallets. The European Commission (EC) is expected to approve this offer next month. This offer from Apple follows a four-year investigation and aims to avoid any findings of infringement and potential fines. Apple was recently fined €1.84 billion for anti-competitive practices related to App Store restrictions, their first EU antitrust fine.
The ability to use third-party app stores on iPhones is a significant development for UK users, as it allows them greater flexibility and choice when it comes to downloading apps onto their devices. Previously, iPhone users in the UK were limited to the apps available on the Apple App Store, but now they can explore a wider range of options from alternative app stores.
Furthermore, the option to make payments for apps and services outside of the Apple App Store is a welcome change for UK consumers. This means that iPhone owners can now use different payment methods and potentially access discounts or promotions that may not have been available through Apple’s payment system.
Opening up the tap-to-pay NFC feature to third-party mobile wallets will also have a significant impact on contactless payments in the UK. This move will give consumers more choice in how they make payments with their iPhones, potentially leading to increased competition and innovation in the mobile payment sector.
Overall, these changes brought about by iOS 17.4 are a positive step towards a more open and competitive digital marketplace for iPhone users in the UK. It will be interesting to see how these new features are received and the impact they have on the way UK consumers interact with their devices.
As the European Commission is expected to approve Apple’s offer to open up the tap-to-pay NFC feature next month, it signals a shift towards greater competition and choice in the mobile payments space. This move could have far-reaching implications for how consumers in the UK and across Europe make payments using their smartphones.
It will be important for Apple to ensure that the implementation of these new features is seamless and user-friendly for UK consumers. With the potential for increased competition and choice in the digital marketplace, it will be crucial for Apple to continue innovating and improving the user experience on their devices.
Overall, the changes brought about by iOS 17.4 are a positive development for iPhone owners in the UK, offering greater choice and flexibility when it comes to accessing apps and making payments. It will be interesting to see how these changes impact the digital landscape in the UK and beyond.