Unlike the EU, the CMA stated that its focus is on ensuring the interoperability of specific aspects of Apple's technology, such as digital wallets and watches. In the six months since the EU forced Apple to widen access to its tech, an alternative payment app Vipps launched, followed by PayPal, Klarna, Curve, and BBVA.
Apple defended its current arrangements, stating they have permitted developers in the UK and around the world to securely offer contactless transactions directly within their apps for in-store payments, transit passes, car keys, and event tickets. The company also argued that these new apps could easily have been launched prior to the changes.
The watchdog argued that the current lack of competition means not a single firm has launched a wallet-type product in the UK to compete with Apple. Changes could enable the development of a wide range of new products, including account-to-account payments, digital IDs, travel passes, and digital keys.
Last year, Apple warned UK regulators against following the same path as the EU, which forced the firm to open up a range of its technologies to rivals.
Apple stated that it will continue to engage constructively to reach an outcome that is in the best interest of its users.