UK CMA Proposes Off-Platform Payments, Fair Fees and NFC Access

AAPL•

2026-06-30

Britain's Competition and Markets Authority proposed letting developers steer users to off-platform payments, requiring Apple to charge fair fees below its current App Store commissions. It also plans to require Apple open its iOS NFC interface for contactless payments within third-party apps.

1. Regulatory Proposal Details

The Competition and Markets Authority proposed the removal of Apple’s restriction against steering in the UK. Developers would be allowed to guide users to off-platform payment systems, reducing reliance on the App Store's in-app purchase mechanism.

2. Fee Requirements and Consumer Impact

Under the proposal, Apple must set steering fees that are fair and reasonable and below its current commissions. The regulator expects that fee savings will be passed to end users or reinvested in product innovation.

3. NFC Access Considerations

The CMA is also considering mandating Apple to open its iOS near-field communication interface. This change would enable developers to offer their own contactless payment services directly within third-party apps.