Apple is reportedly planning to allow multiple payment methods, potentially bringing Google Pay to the iPhone. We’ll tell you why that’s good news!
Apple expands NFC technology
After the switch to USB-C and support for RCS, Apple may be forced to make a change again. According to the European Commission, Apple must open the technology behind the NFC chip to third parties. This chip in iPhones and Apple Watches is used for payment methods, but is currently only available for Apple Pay.
Also read: iPhone tips: how to get more out of Apple Pay
According to the European Commission, this leads to an unfair dominant position for Apple, because the NFC chip cannot now be used for other mobile payment services. The technology behind the chip must therefore be opened up so that other companies can better compete with Apple Pay. That now seems to be happening, meaning Google Pay may soon also come to your iPhone.
Google Pay may be coming to the iPhone
Google Pay is the counterpart of Apple Pay and is available on Android devices. Apple has deliberately locked down the technology behind the NFC chip in recent years. The company said this was done to keep the technology and payment methods safe. This prevented Google Pay from coming to the iPhone, but that may change.
You will therefore soon have a choice between Apple Pay and Google Pay, which has several advantages. For example, Apple Pay is not yet available at every bank. A bank usually supports at least Apple Pay or Google Pay, meaning that almost anyone with an iPhone can make contactless payments with both options.
In addition, not all ATMs currently support Apple Pay, especially abroad. With Google Pay as an option on your iPhone, you will soon no longer have to take your debit card with you abroad.
More changes by the EU
Apple must therefore make further adjustments to the NFC chip due to European Union legislation. We already saw this earlier this year with the iPhone 15, when Apple was forced to switch to USB-C. In addition, it should be possible to download apps without the App Store. This should also lead to a less dominant position for Apple and a fairer opportunity for small developers.
Also read: End of Maestro near: what does this mean for your debit card and Apple Pay?
It will probably take some time before third parties have access to the technology behind the NFC chip. This is expected to happen next year, but no precise date is known. The same applies to downloading apps without the App Store, which is also planned for 2024. Would you like to know more about sideloading? Then read about the new way of downloading apps here.
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