Apple has officially introduced its payment service, Apple Pay, in India, marking its entry more than ten years after the service first launched in the United States. Starting from September 30, users in India can begin making payments using their iPhones, iPads, or Apple Watches. The current availability of this service is restricted to credit cards issued by Axis Bank, specifically those that support Visa and Mastercard.

Features Of Apple Pay

Apple Pay is designed to provide a secure payment solution that simplifies the transaction process for users. Unlike traditional banking methods that require OTPs or PINs during checkout, Apple Pay allows for a seamless experience by authenticating payments directly on the device. Jennifer Bailey, Apple’s vice president of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet, stated that the service aims to make everyday payments easy, secure, and private.

This payment service enables users to make in-store transactions by merely tapping their devices without the need for additional applications, thereby streamlining the payment process. In addition to physical transactions, Apple Pay can also be utilised in various apps and online platforms, eliminating the necessity of re-entering card details each time a user makes a payment.

While Apple Pay is entering a market where UPI has become widely popular, the service could attract users looking for alternatives, particularly in light of recent discussions regarding merchant discount rates associated with UPI transactions. This aspect may lead some customers to explore other payment options.

How To Set Up Apple Pay

Setting up Apple Pay in India is a straightforward process. Users can add eligible cards through the Wallet app available on their iPhones. By selecting the plus sign within the app and following a few simple steps, users can easily set up their payment method. Alternatively, cards can also be added via the Axis Bank application.

Once a card has been successfully added, the service is ready for immediate use. For offline purchases, users can activate Apple Pay by double-clicking the side button or home button, and then authenticating their payment through Face ID, Touch ID, or a device passcode. Users should position the top of their iPhone or display of the Apple Watch near a contactless reader to complete the transaction.

Apple Pay users will also retain the rewards and benefits associated with their credit cards, providing an added incentive to adopt this new payment method. Eligible devices for Apple Pay include iPhone XR and later models that are compatible with at least iOS 18, as well as Apple Watch Series 6 or newer devices running on watchOS 11 or later.

Merchant Acceptance and Future Prospects

At its initial launch, Apple Pay will be supported by various merchants, including major brands and platforms such as Apple Store locations, Blinkit, Chaayos, Comet, Croma, Interflora, Ixigo, Le15 Patisserie, Reliance brands, Tata 1mg, and Zomato. As the service grows, Apple is expected to expand its partnerships to include additional merchants and apps, enhancing the payment options available to users over time.

The introduction of Apple Pay in India reflects Apple’s strategic vision to tap into the growing market for digital payments. As more users transition towards cashless transactions, the service looks to establish a foothold among the existing payment solutions available in the country.

With the introduction of Apple Pay, Indian consumers may find a new and convenient option for their digital payment needs, even amid the existing competition from other digital payment systems. As adoption increases, the landscape for electronic payments may alter significantly.

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