New Delhi, Sep 30: Apple has officially launched Apple Pay in India, giving users a new way to make contactless payments through their Apple devices. The service is initially available on iPhone, iPad and Apple Watch, while support for Mac is expected to be introduced soon.
At launch, customers with eligible Axis Bank-issued Visa and Mastercard credit cards can add their cards to Apple Pay and use them at participating stores, apps and online platforms across India. The service can also be used at locations that accept NFC-based contactless payments.
The launch expands Apple’s presence in India’s rapidly growing digital payments ecosystem, where consumers are increasingly adopting mobile and contactless payment technologies.
Secure payments without PINs or OTPs
Apple Pay is designed to make everyday card payments simpler while adding multiple layers of security and privacy. Users can pay at supported stores by bringing their Apple device close to a contactless payment terminal, without having to enter a card PIN or OTP at checkout.
For online purchases and payments within apps, users can complete transactions without repeatedly entering their card details.
Apple said actual card numbers are not stored on the user’s device or on Apple servers and are not shared with merchants. Instead, a unique Device Account Number is created for the card and securely stored in the device’s Secure Element, a certified chip designed to protect payment credentials.
The company also said it does not retain transaction information that can be linked directly to users. Payment transactions remain between the customer, merchant and card-issuing bank.
Easy setup through Apple Wallet
Eligible customers can add their cards directly through the latest version of the Axis Bank app or through the Apple Wallet app on their iPhone.
To add a card through Wallet, users can open the app, tap the plus (+) button and follow the on-screen instructions. Once the card is added and verified, Apple Pay can be used immediately at supported payment locations.
Customers will continue to receive the rewards and benefits associated with their eligible cards while using Apple Pay.
Strengthening India’s digital payment ecosystem
Axis Bank, Mastercard and Visa welcomed the launch, highlighting the growing demand for convenient and secure digital payment options in India.
The arrival of Apple Pay also adds another technology-driven payment option to India’s expanding contactless commerce landscape. With smartphone adoption, digital transactions and NFC-enabled payment infrastructure continuing to grow, the service could further expand the use of device-based payments among Apple users.
At launch, Apple Pay will be accepted across millions of merchant locations in India, including Apple Store locations.
Apple Pay is currently available in more than 90 countries and regions and supports over 11,000 bank and payment network partners globally, according to the company.
The India launch marks another step in Apple’s expansion of its financial technology and digital wallet services, bringing its device-based payment ecosystem to one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing digital markets.