Allow people to interact with connected accessories in completely new and exciting ways by leveraging the U1 chip in iPhone or Apple Watch. The Nearby Interaction framework makes it easy to get started with integrating Ultra Wideband (UWB) in your apps and hardware accessories.
Build apps that interact with accessories simply by being in close proximity to an Apple device that includes the U1 chip. Taking advantage of UWB technology lets you create more precise, directionally aware app experiences.
Use the Nearby Interaction accessory protocol and an Apple-approved UWB solution to manufacture accessories that interact with U1 in supported Apple products. Get started by previewing the specifications.
Download the Nearby Interaction Accessory Protocol Specification for iOS 15
Download the Nearby Interaction Accessory Protocol Specification Developer Preview for iOS 16
Provide Apple U1 interoperability with your UWB solution. Chipset manufacturers who are interested should join the MFi Program to access the necessary technical specifications and resources.
Get an early preview of updates to the Nearby Interaction accessory protocol that enable hands-free interactions in iOS 16.
Download the Nearby Interaction Accessory Protocol Specification Developer Preview for iOS 16
The specification is intended for accessory manufacturers looking to integrate UWB into new or existing accessories. To learn how to build apps that work with Nearby Interaction-enabled accessories, view the the Nearby Interaction framework documentation. Chipset manufacturers who are interested in building a UWB solution that is interoperable with Apple U1 should join the MFi Program.
The Developer Preview for iOS 16 provides an updated protocol for accessories that use both UWB and Bluetooth LE. Accessories that support this updated protocol may interact with iPhone apps even when they are running in the background, enabling new hands-free user experiences.
For more details, watch the WWDC22 video and view the framework documentation.
To create an UWB accessory that supports Nearby Interactions, select an approved UWB chipset that is interoperable with Apple U1. After integrating the approved UWB chipset in your accessory, implement the Nearby Interaction Accessory Protocol in both the accessory and your companion app.
Approved UWB development kits are available for accessory manufacturers to purchase from the following chipset manufacturers:
Ultra Wideband is available on iPhone 13 models, iPhone 12 models, iPhone 11 models, Apple Watch Series 7, and Apple Watch Series 6. Availability varies by region due to regulatory requirements.