The European Union antitrust regulators recently announced their decision to accept commitments from Apple regarding access to its tap and go payments technology by rivals, thereby concluding a four-year investigation. This decision was made in response to concerns that Apple may have been illegally restricting competition in mobile wallets on iPhones.
The EU formally launched an investigation into Apple Pay in 2020, focusing on the terms and conditions set by Apple for integrating Apple Pay in apps and websites, as well as concerns regarding the tap and go technology and alleged refusals of access to Apple Pay. In 2022, it was found that Apple Pay could potentially restrict competition as the only option for iPhone users.
Apple has since offered commitments to address these concerns, including allowing third-party developers access to NFC technology without charging them, providing access to key iPhone features like Face ID to competing payment wallets, and allowing users to set any wallet of their choice as the default option. The European Commission market tested these commitments and concluded that they address the concerns regarding Apple’s restrictions on tap and go payments technology.
The changes stemming from Apple’s commitments have now been made legally binding, with Apple having until July 25 to implement them. These commitments are set to remain in effect for ten years and are expected to benefit competitors and customers by opening up innovation and choice in the mobile wallet market while keeping payments secure.
Following the implementation of these commitments, all developers will be able to offer mobile wallets for iPhones with tap and go technology. The decision by EU antitrust regulators marks a significant shift in how Apple operates in Europe and aims to promote competition and consumer choice in the mobile payments sector.
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