London-based digital wallet Curve has seized the opportunity presented by Apple’s recent decision to open its NFC interface, offering a competitive alternative to Apple Pay for iOS users.
Following a European Commission ruling last July concerning competition, Apple was required to allow third-party payment solutions. Previously, iPhone users were limited to Apple Pay, restricting banks and wallet providers from enhancing the user experience.
Curve’s wallet consolidates all of a customer’s cards into one platform, featuring smart functions such as real-time spending insights, post-transaction payment source switching, split payments, and rewards stacking. This offers iOS users a more versatile experience compared to Apple Pay’s basic tap-to-pay functionality.
“The payments ecosystem has long been dominated by a single player. With Apple now compelled to embrace competition, Curve Pay marks the beginning of a new era for iOS consumers,” said Shachar Bialick, CEO and Founder of Curve. “Curve Pay allows users to manage their finances more intelligently and facilitates access for all users, regardless of device, providing unique benefits.”
Bialick claims that Curve is the first company in Europe to offer iOS users a real choice. However, this assertion may be challenged by Norway’s Vipps, which introduced a competing tap-to-pay service for iPhones in December.