Apple Pay has officially launched in India, giving iPhone, iPad and Apple Watch users a new way to make digital payments. At launch, Axis Bank customers with eligible Visa and Mastercard credit cards can add their cards to Apple Pay and use them at supported merchants across India.
Apple Pay India Launch Begins With Axis Bank
Apple Pay allows users to make contactless payments without opening a separate payment app. Customers can add an eligible Axis Bank credit card through the latest Axis Bank app or directly through Apple Wallet.
At stores, users can double-click the side button on an iPhone or the Home button on supported devices. They can then use Face ID, Touch ID or their device passcode to confirm the payment.
After authentication, users simply hold their iPhone or Apple Watch near a contactless payment terminal. The device uses NFC technology to communicate with the payment machine.
Apple Pay can also work without an active Wi-Fi or mobile data connection for in-store payments. However, the transaction may appear in the payment history only after the device reconnects to the internet or cellular network.
Apple Pay Supports Online Payments
Apple Pay is not limited to physical stores. Users can also make payments through supported apps and websites on iPhone and iPad.
The service also supports participating third-party browsers. Customers can select Apple Pay at checkout, scan a QR code when required, review the payment details and confirm the purchase.
Apple said users will continue to receive the rewards and benefits linked to their eligible credit cards while using Apple Pay.
Support for Mac is expected to arrive soon, giving Apple users another way to use the payment service.
How Apple Pay Protects User Data
Security is a major part of Apple Pay. Apple said it does not store actual card numbers on the device or its servers. It also does not share the actual card number with merchants.
Instead, Apple Pay creates a unique Device Account Number for the card. The number is encrypted and stored in the device’s Secure Element, a dedicated security chip.
The service also uses tokenisation technology to protect transactions. Visa and Mastercard use secure payment tokens to help protect card details during transactions.
If an iPhone is lost or stolen, users can use the Find My app to locate or lock the device. They can also suspend payments linked to the device.
Where Apple Pay Works in India
Apple Pay will be available at millions of supported merchant locations across India. These include Apple Store locations and several major businesses such as Blinkit, Chaayos, Croma, Ixigo, Reliance brands, Tata 1mg and Zomato.
Apple has also partnered with payment service providers including Cashfree, JusPay, Mswipe, Paytm, PayU, Pine Labs, Razorpay and Worldline.
Apple Pay can also be used internationally at supported contactless payment terminals. However, overseas transactions depend on the user’s bank and any applicable charges.
Apple Pay is currently available in more than 90 countries and regions and works with thousands of banking and payment partners worldwide.
Apple Pay Device Requirements
To use Apple Pay, customers need an iPhone XR or a newer model running iOS 18 or later. Apple Watch users need a Series 6 or newer model running watchOS 11 or later and paired with an iPhone XR or newer.
Apple does not charge users an additional fee for purchases made through Apple Pay. However, card issuers may continue to apply their regular charges or fees.
The India launch gives Apple users another digital payment option and brings Apple’s contactless payment system into one of the world’s fastest-growing digital payment markets.