Getty Images The Australian government is considering requiring Apple to open up its contactless payment technology to more than just its own Apple Pay service. The Parliamentary Joint Committee on Corporations and Financial Services has heard arguments for and against forcing Apple to open up access to its near-field communication (NFC) interface on iPhone to third-party apps, much like how other interfaces like Bluetooth and the camera can be used by any application. Major stakeholders like Apple, Google and others are all presenting arguments for consideration. Although Android supports alternatives, Apple cites security issues with the alternative as a reason why it cannot open up the NFC interface to third parties.