Apple Announces New In-App NFC Capabilities for Developers Starting with iOS 18.1
Apple has announced that starting with the upcoming release of iOS 18.1, developers will be able to offer NFC-free transactions directly within their apps using Secure Element (SE), separate from Apple Pay and Apple Wallet. This new functionality will be made possible by the introduction of NFC and SE APIs, which will allow developers to integrate in-app contactless operations in various use cases.
The new capabilities will allow developers to integrate store payments, car keys, closed transit systems, corporate badges, student IDs, home keys, hotel keys, merchant loyalty and rewards cards, and event tickets into their apps. Future support for government IDs is also expected.
Apple emphasizes that user security and privacy are always top priorities. The new solution is designed to provide a secure NFC contactless interface between iOS applications. Secure Element, an industry-standard, certified chip, is used to securely store sensitive information on the device. The solution also uses Apple hardware and software technologies, including Secure Enclave, biometric authentication, and Apple servers, to protect users during contactless transactions.
To run a touchless operation within an app that uses these APIs, users can open the app directly or set it as their default touch login app in iOS settings. Transactions can be made by double-clicking the side button on the iPhone.
Developers who wish to include this new capability in their applications will need to enter into a commercial agreement with Apple, request the necessary NFC and SE rights, and pay the corresponding fees. This process ensures that only authorized developers who meet certain industry and legal requirements, as well as Apple’s ongoing security and privacy standards, can access the relevant APIs.
The NFC and SE APIs will be available to developers in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, UK, and the US in the upcoming iOS 18.1 developer seed, with plans to expand to additional locations in the future. Despite the introduction of these new capabilities, developers and users will still be able to access the secure and private experience provided by Apple Pay and Apple Wallet.
