Starting with iOS 18.1, developers can now enable NFC-based contactless transactions within their own apps on iPhone, distinct from Apple Pay and Wallet functionality. Developers will now have the ability to provide in-app contactless transactions for a wide range of applications, including in-store payments, automotive keys, closed-loop transit systems, company badges, student IDs, house keys, hotel keys, service provider loyalty and rewards cards, and event tickets, with government-issued IDs slated for future support.
To integrate Apple’s latest iOS features into their iPhone apps, developers may wish to consider negotiating an industry settlement with the tech giant, requesting access to Near Field Communication (NFC) and Secure Enclave (SE) capabilities, while also paying associated fees. This guarantees that only licensed builders who meet specific industry and regulatory requirements, and choose to adhere to Apple’s ongoing safety and privacy standards, can access relevant APIs. The NFC and SE APIs are expected to be available to developers in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States. In the forthcoming iOS 18.1 Developer Seed, enhanced regions have been added to facilitate compliance. Builders and customers will gain seamless access to Apple Pay’s intuitive, secure, and personalized experience.
