The SIM Alliance has released the second version of its Open Mobile API which it says will make it easier for developers to connect their applications to the Secure Element within smartphones and featurephones. The alliance’s second release of the API features a new service layer designed to enhance the existing transport API. This should provide a more intuitive interface and improved functionality for developers, says the organisation.

Its Open Mobile API Release 1 came out earlier this year and is being specified by “an increasing number” of mobile operators and already implemented by “some” handset vendors as “the de facto standard” for access to the secure element, says the organsiation. The first release has been incorporated into Android-based NFC devices.  The alliance says its API also cuts out the need for developers to rework their app for every conceivable device and operating system. The alliance represents leading SIM card suppliers such as Gemalto, Oberthur Technologies and Giesecke & Devrient.