Circle CEO Says USDC Tap-to-Pay is Coming to Apple iPhone

Circle CEO Jeremy Allaire has recently hinted that a USDC tap-to-pay feature will soon be available to Apple iPhone users. Indeed, Allaire took to X (formerly Twitter) to say that the feature is “incoming soon,” while calling on wallet developers to “start your engines.”

The statement was made after Apple recently opted to open iPhone’s NFC payment feature to third-party applications. In a press release, the tech firm notes that iOS 18.1 will allow the function for developers. Specifically, it would be viable through Secure Element within their applications.

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USDC Tap-to-Pay Coming to iPhone? Circle CEO Says Get Ready

There is no denying the popularity of Apple products. The firm generated a remarkable $383.2 billion in revenue in 2023. Yet, more than 52% of that was derived from iPhone sales alone. The mobile phone has dominated the market. Now, it is set to get a major crypto upgrade.

Indeed, Circle CEO Jeremy Allaire recently hinted that a USDC tap-to-pay feature is coming to Apple iPhone. The firm has recently said its NFC payment function is open to third-party apps. Therefore, it will be compatible with the sesecond-largest stablecoin.

Also Read: Circle Gets First Stablecoin License Under New EU MiCA Crypto Rules

Allaire further explained that he “has no relationship with Apple, and this has nothing to do with Apple Pay,” in a follow-up post. However, the NFC feature will allow crypto wallets to be accessed for easier transactions. Indeed, it would further change the game in terms of cypto accessibility in everyday purchases.

Prior to the change, Apple Wallet and Apple Pay were the only applications that could use NFC on an iPhone. Moreover, Allaire said the development opens up “a powerful pathway for direct to-merchant USDC payments.” It could also be used by other crypto wallets and tokens.