Norwegian payment service Vipps has launched the world’s first tap-to-pay solution for iPhone, competing directly with Apple Pay.
This marks the first implementation of third-party access to Apple’s NFC technology, following a European Commission agreement requiring Apple to open its mobile payments system.
Starting December 9, Vipps users in Norway can make contactless payments at over 90% of terminals that accept BankAxept cards.
The service initially supports major Norwegian banks, including SpareBank 1 and DNB, representing 70% of Norwegian customers.
With Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode for authentication, iPhone users can set Vipps as their default payment app. The service plans to expand to Visa and Mastercard compatibility and roll out in other Nordic countries in 2025.
This development opens the door for more third-party payment providers across Europe, potentially reshaping the mobile payments landscape.
