Introduction
Choosing between Barcode Wallet Passes and NFC Wallet Passes depends on your business goals, timelines, and technical capabilities. This guide provides a side-by-side comparison to help you make the right choice quickly.
Quick Comparison Table
Feature / Factor | Barcode Passes | NFC Passes |
Apple Review Required | ❌ No | ✅ Yes – Apple reviews and approves NFC passes |
Google Approval Required | ❌ No | ❌ No – PassKit provisions NFC credentials automatically |
Time to Deploy | Fast – Passes can be live within hours/days | Longer – Apple reviews each NFC use case before launch |
Hardware Requirements | Standard barcode scanners / POS systems | NFC terminals supporting Apple VAS & Google SmartTap |
Use Case Complexity | Simple loyalty, coupons, event tickets, access | Complex / high-security use cases needing contactless tap |
End-User Experience | Scan QR/barcode at checkout or entry | Tap phone for seamless contactless verification |
Security Level | Moderate – Barcodes can be copied/screenshot | High – NFC payload encrypted & cannot be duplicated |
Real-Time Updates | ✅ Supported | ✅ Supported |
Apple Wallet Notifications | ✅ Supported | ✅ Supported |
Setup Effort | Low – No Apple review or NFC hardware needed | Higher – Requires Apple review & compatible hardware |
Best For | Quick launches, loyalty cards, coupons, events | Approved high-security or tap-to-access experiences |
When to Choose Barcode Passes
You want to launch quickly without waiting for additional approvals
Your use case doesn’t require contactless tap functionality
You prefer simple, scalable deployment without extra hardware
Barcode passes offer:
Real-time updates
Notifications
Full Wallet integration for both Apple and Google Wallet
When to Choose NFC Passes
Your use case requires contactless tap for authentication or access
You can provide visual materials for Apple review (wireframes, demo videos)
You have or plan to deploy Apple VAS / Google SmartTap certified terminals
NFC passes deliver:
Seamless tap-to-access experiences
High security with encrypted payloads
Apple and Google Wallet compatibility once approved
Next Steps
If you need help deciding, start with the NFC Pass Interest Form.
PassKit will advise whether NFC passes or barcode passes fit your goals better.
For NFC passes, PassKit coordinates the Apple application process and review.