Switzerland Launches Antitrust Investigation into Apple’s NFC Access

Switzerland’s competition regulator, the Swiss Competition Commission (COMCO), has initiated a provisional investigation into the conditions Apple imposes on third-party companies wishing to access the Near Field Communication (NFC) technology that facilitates Apple Pay. This inquiry aims to evaluate whether these conditions hinder effective competition in the mobile payment industry.

The backdrop to this investigation is rooted in recent regulatory actions taken by the European Union. In June 2024, the EU mandated that Apple must allow rival firms to integrate with its NFC payment processes. Following this directive, Apple extended similar access to companies in various regions, including the United States, Canada, and Japan, starting in August 2024. This move was intended to foster competition within the mobile payment sector.

COMCO’s investigation will focus on the specifics of the access granted to third-party payment applications. By scrutinizing Apple’s practices, the commission seeks to determine whether other mobile payment providers can effectively compete with Apple Pay. This inquiry reflects a broader trend of regulatory bodies examining the competitive practices of major tech firms.

The implications of this investigation could be significant, potentially affecting how Apple conducts its business in Switzerland and beyond. As the landscape of mobile payments evolves, the actions taken by regulators in Europe and now Switzerland may influence similar efforts in other regions.

This investigation is part of an ongoing dialogue surrounding competition in the technology sector, particularly regarding how dominant players manage access to essential technologies. The outcome may set a precedent that could reshape the mobile payment ecosystem, encouraging more equitable access for all players involved.

As the situation develops, stakeholders across the industry will keenly observe how COMCO’s findings might alter the competitive dynamics of mobile payments not only in Switzerland but also in the broader European market.