In addition to allowing low-cost sideloading of apps in EU countries, Apple will also provide developers with the ability to use iPhone near-field communications, and Apple Pay will also be available for other banking and wallet apps. On Thursday, Apple announced details related to the release of iOS 17.4 in the European Union in accordance with the Digital Markets Act, which includes opening the NFC system to any developer who wants to use it for contactless payments.

New additions include new APIs that enable developers to use NFC technology in banking and wallet applications across the European Economic Area.

In the European Union, Apple is introducing new controls that will allow users to select third-party contactless payment apps or alternative app markets as their default app.

As it has done with other app stores, Apple is warning users of the risks.

Apple said: "New options for developers of EU apps will inevitably introduce new risks to Apple users and their devices. Apple cannot eliminate these risks, but within the limitations of DMA, the company will take steps to reduce risks. These safeguards will be implemented starting in March when users download iOS 17.4 or later."

In May 2023, EU regulators stepped up their investigation into Apple's restrictions on third-party access to its in-car NFC technology.

The European Commission accuses Apple of anti-competitive behavior since it launched Apple Pay in 2015. The committee is concerned that Apple’s practice of limiting the iPhone’s built-in NFC chip to Apple Pay is hindering third-party companies from entering the mobile payments market.

In 2019, EU investigators asked payment companies for feedback on Apple Pay. They worry that Apple's decision to limit the iPhone's NFC chip to only work with Apple Pay will hinder other companies from entering the mobile payments market.

Some government agencies have criticized Apple for restricting the use of NFC technology on its devices. Australian banks were among the first to raise objections to Apple Pay shortly after its launch. They are trying to boycott the service and negotiate for third parties to use the NFC hardware in Apple devices.

However, the banks eventually backed down after the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission dismissed requests for a boycott in 2017.