A job opening at Apple for an “Alternative Payments” business manager set off a wave of speculation that the iPhone-maker is getting into cryptocurrency.
It’s apparently a change of heart by CEO Tim Cook, who’s on the record as being opposed to privately controlled currencies.
Apple hiring a ‘Alternative Payments’ expert
It’s no rumor that Apple is looking for an expert in alternative payment providers. The job description is for someone with at least five years experience with “digital wallets, BNPL, Fast Payments, cryptocurrency and etc.”
The position will be part of the company’s Apple Wallets, Payments, and Commerce team, and it’s for “an experienced Business Development Manager to lead Alternative Payments Partnerships.”
Apple CEO not a fan of cryptocurrency
Just seeing the words “Apple” and “cryptocurrency” in anything coming from company headquarters in Cupertino is enough to set off a buzz of speculation. But all that’s really known is the new hire will be tasked with building “relationships with strategic alternative payment partners.”
Still, that at least raises the possibility that shoppers could someday use Apple Wallet to make purchases with cryptocurrency. Or even pay for Apple products that way.
But an “AppleCoin” seems very unlikely. CEO Tim Cook is opposed to all such things. “I deeply believe that money must remain in the hands of states,” Cook said in 2019. “I am not comfortable with the idea that a private group creates a competing currency.”
