Apple Pay Faces UK Challenge Over Contactless Fees

Apple Pay could face a significant challenge in the UK as the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) proposes lower fees and easier access to iPhone contactless technology for rival digital wallets. The changes could intensify competition with Apple Pay, expand opportunities for fintech businesses and raise a broader question: can developers compete fairly when one technology company controls access to a key smartphone feature? On October 20, 2026, the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CM