# Global antitrust actions against Apple ecosystem

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/global-antitrust-actions-against-apple-ecosystem
> Updated: 2026-10-22T08:52:12.000Z. Sources: 13. Developments: 2.

Regulatory and judicial scrutiny of Apple’s market dominance has intensified across different jurisdictions. In the United Kingdom, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has launched a public consultation to address Apple’s control over the iPhone’s Near Field Communication (NFC) chip. The regulator argues that current restrictions, including high fees and technical limitations, prevent competitors from developing viable alternatives to Apple Pay.

While Apple has eased some restrictions for developers within the European Union, the CMA notes that UK developers face different, more disadvantageous conditions. The regulator aims to align UK rules with the standards established in the EU, where qualifying developers can access NFC technology for free to support digital wallets, keys, and transit cards. CMA CEO Sarah Cardell stated that these barriers make it difficult for challengers to innovate and compete, noting that “no UK-based company has successfully launched a wallet-like service due to these hurdles.” Apple has expressed opposition, citing potential risks to user security and privacy, but has committed to ongoing cooperation.

Concurrently, an Australian Federal Court ruled that Apple misused its power within the iOS app distribution and in-app payment markets. The court ordered Apple to allow Australian users to install apps from third-party stores and directly from websites starting in March 2027. The ruling also prohibits Apple from forcing its proprietary In-App Purchase system and requires the reinstatement of Epic Games’ Fortnite in the Australian App Store.

## Claims

- The UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has launched a public consultation regarding Apple's NFC chip access. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- Apple's current NFC terms in the UK include high fees and technical restrictions. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- Apple has already implemented rules in the EU allowing developers to access NFC technology for free under certain conditions. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- No UK company has successfully launched a wallet-like service in the UK. (single source)
- Apple opposes the proposed changes, claiming they would reduce security and privacy. (single source)
- The consultation process regarding NFC access began on January 23, 2025. (single source)

## Timeline

### 2026-10-22: Australian court orders Apple to open iPhone to rival app stores

An Australian court has ordered Apple to allow third-party app stores and alternative payment methods on iPhones in Australia starting March 2027.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/australian-court-orders-apple-to-open-iphone-to-rival-app-stores

### 2026-10-20: UK regulator targets Apple over iPhone NFC chip access

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority is seeking to force Apple to open its iPhone NFC technology to rival payment and digital wallet providers to foster competition.

11 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/uk-regulator-proposes-unlocking-iphone-contactless-technology

---
Cite as: Global antitrust actions against Apple ecosystem. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/global-antitrust-actions-against-apple-ecosystem