Apple has launched its contactless payment service, Apple Pay, in India. For this rollout, the company partnered with Axis Bank. Users can now add credit cards to their iPhones. Afterwards, they can tap the device on PoS machines for payments. Apple first launched this service in the United States during September 2014. With India’s addition, Apple Pay now operates across more than 90 countries and regions.
Globally, the service works with over 11,000 banks and network partners. However, Indian users can currently add only Axis Bank Visa and Mastercard credit cards. In the future, Apple may extend support to other banks and debit cards.
How Apple Pay makes contactless payments easier
Apple Pay serves as the company’s digital payment platform. Users can tap compatible Apple devices on contactless PoS machines to complete transactions. Therefore, they do not need to remove physical credit cards for every purchase. This setup also lowers the chances of losing or damaging cards. Moreover, users can store and manage several options digitally inside Apple Wallet.
Apple Pay uses Near Field Communication, commonly called NFC, for transactions. Users can pay through iPhone, Apple Watch and iPad at NFC-enabled PoS terminals. Additionally, Apple may soon bring Apple Pay support to Mac users in India.
Which devices support Apple Pay?
Users need an iPhone XR or newer model for Apple Pay. The device must run iOS 18 or a later version. Eligible Axis Bank credit cards can then enter Apple Wallet.
For Apple Watch, users need Series 6 or a newer model. The smartwatch must also run watchOS 11 or later software.
Apple Pay does more than contactless purchases inside physical stores. Users can also pay within apps and on e-commerce platforms using eligible credit cards. For security, payments require Face ID, Touch ID or the device passcode.
How to set up Apple Pay on an iPhone
First, unlock your eligible iPhone. Next, open the Wallet app on the device. Then, tap the plus (+) icon visible at the screen’s top. After that, select the “Debit or Credit Card” option.
Now, place your eligible Axis Bank credit card behind the iPhone. This step allows the device to scan card details. Alternatively, choose “Enter Card Details Manually” to add information yourself. Afterwards, enter your full name, card number, expiry date and security code.
Then, tap “Continue” to move ahead. Finally, follow the on-screen instructions and complete the card setup.
What happens after setup?
Once setup finishes, your Axis Bank credit card will appear inside Apple Wallet. Afterwards, you can use it for payments at NFC-supported PoS terminals. Simply tap your iPhone on the compatible machine to complete the transaction.
