Apple has launched Apple Maps on the web in public beta, making it possible for users around the world to access all of the service’s powerful mapping and navigation tools directly from their browser. Now, Apple is also introducing new NFC and Secure Element (SE) APIs in iOS 18.1, enabling developers to offer in-app contactless transactions for a variety of uses beyond Apple Pay and Wallet.
The Apple Maps for Web beta expands access to Apple Maps through any modern browser. Compatible with Safari and Chrome on Mac and iPad, as well as Chrome and Edge on Windows PCs, this rollout brings Apple Maps to a larger audience. Meanwhile, the new NFC and SE APIs in iOS 18.1 will allow developers to integrate NFC contactless transactions directly into their iPhone apps, covering a wide range of applications from corporate badges to event tickets.
Key Features Of Apple Maps On The Web
The public beta of Apple Maps on the web brings a host of familiar features to the browser-based experience, including driving and walking directions, place information, curated guides, and Look Around.
Driving & Walking Directions
Users can now access driving and walking directions directly from their browsers. Whether planning a trip or finding the fastest route, the service provides clear and precise instructions.
Place Information
Discover detailed information about businesses, landmarks, and other locations, including photos, operating hours, ratings, and reviews. Users can even take actions like ordering food directly from the place card in Maps.
Curated Guides
Apple Maps continues to offer Guides, which feature suggestions for places to eat, shop, and explore in cities around the world. These Guides provide insights into the best spots for both travellers and locals alike.
Look Around
In the coming months, the web version of Apple Maps will also support Look Around, Apple’s immersive street-level viewing feature. This will allow users to explore cities and neighbourhoods in detail, adding another layer of depth to the mapping experience.
NFC Contactless Transactions With iOS 18.1
Alongside the public beta of Apple Maps for Web, Apple is bringing new NFC and Secure Element APIs in iOS 18.1, empowering developers to offer a broad range of in-app contactless transactions. These transactions extend beyond traditional payment systems, allowing for innovative solutions such as:
- In-Store Payments
- Car Keys
- Closed-Loop Transit
- Corporate Badges
- Student IDs
- Home Keys
- Hotel Keys
- Merchant Loyalty and Rewards Cards
- Event Tickets
In the future, government IDs will also be supported, further expanding the possibilities of in-app NFC transactions. The NFC and SE APIs leverage Apple’s Secure Element, a certified chip designed to securely store sensitive information on the device. This new feature is designed with the same commitment to privacy and security that Apple users have come to expect, utilising proprietary technologies like Secure Enclave, biometric authentication, and Apple servers to ensure that contactless transactions are safe and reliable.
To initiate a transaction within an app that utilises these APIs, users can either open the app directly or set it as their default contactless app in iOS Settings. A simple double-click of the side button on the iPhone will initiate the transaction, making the process quick and seamless.
Developer Access To NFC & SE APIs
To integrate NFC contactless transactions within their iPhone apps, developers will need to enter into a commercial agreement with Apple and request the NFC and SE entitlement. This process includes meeting specific industry and regulatory requirements, as well as paying associated fees. By doing so, Apple ensures that only authorised developers have access to these sensitive APIs.
NFC Availability
The NFC and SE APIs will be available in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, the U.K., and the U.S. in an upcoming developer seed for iOS 18.1, with additional locations to follow. Despite the introduction of these new APIs, developers and users will still have access to the easy, secure, and private experience of Apple Pay and Wallet.
More Accessible To Developers
The introduction of Apple Maps for Web makes Apple Maps more accessible than ever for developers, offering users a powerful tool for navigation and exploration, while the NFC and SE APIs open the door for developers to innovate with contactless solutions.