Apple has shared some resources and details for accessory makers looking to integrate Ultra Wideband-enabled Nearby Interactions in their hardware.
Credit: AppleInsider
The resources, released during WWDC 2021, include a draft specification of the Nearby Interactions protocol. Apple also has a "Explore Nearby Interaction with third-party accessories" session.
Essentially, this means that third-party accessory makers will be able to view the preliminary requirements for developer accessories that integrate with Apple's UWB technology.
Certain Apple devices with a U1 chip, like the iPhone 11 or iPhone 12 series, will be able to interact with compatible third-party accessories. UWB is already used in some first-party instances, such as providing Precision Finding on AirTag and AirDrop.
At this point, it isn't clear when third-party manufacturers will release accessories that are compatible with the Nearby Interaction framework.
Apple first opened up its Nearby Interactions to third-party app developers at WWDC 2020.
Follow all of WWDC 2021 with comprehensive AppleInsider coverage of the week-long event from June 7 through June 11, including details on iOS 15, iPadOS 15, watchOS 8, macOS Monterey and more.
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