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Barcode vs. NFC Wallet Passes

Which One is Right for You?

Paul Tomes avatar
Written by Paul Tomes
Updated over a week ago

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

  1. If you need help deciding, start with the NFC Pass Interest Form.

  2. PassKit will advise whether NFC passes or barcode passes fit your goals better.

  3. For NFC passes, PassKit coordinates the Apple application process and review.

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