Apple has officially launched its contactless payment service in India, marking the arrival of the digital wallet platform in one of the world's largest mobile markets. The service, which allows users to make payments in physical stores, within mobile applications, and on websites, is now available to iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch users, with Mac support expected to follow in the near future.
Despite the wide reach of Apple’s ecosystem, the initial rollout is restricted by specific banking partnerships. At launch, the service is exclusively compatible with eligible credit cards issued by Axis Bank on the Visa and Mastercard networks. While Apple has indicated it is engaged in ongoing discussions with other major financial institutions, including HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank, no further agreements were finalized at the time of the service's introduction.
Service Limitations and Payment Integration
A significant aspect of the launch is the absence of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), the dominant digital payment infrastructure in India. Apple has clarified that its current offering is strictly card-based, meaning users cannot link their UPI accounts to the
For those with eligible Axis Bank cards, the setup process involves adding credentials directly through the Apple Wallet app or via the Axis Bank mobile banking interface. Once configured, transactions are authenticated using biometric security measures such as Face ID or Touch ID, or by entering a device passcode. This system removes the need for traditional card PINs or one-time passwords (OTP) at the point of sale.
Security and Merchant Availability
Apple has emphasized the security protocols integrated into the platform, noting that actual card numbers are not shared with merchants during transactions. Instead, the service utilizes a unique Device Account Number paired with a specific security code for each purchase. In the event of a lost or stolen device, users are advised to enable Lost Mode, which automatically disables Apple Pay functionality on the affected hardware.
The service is currently accepted at participating merchants that support contactless or Near Field Communication (NFC) payments. Initial partners listed by Apple include its own retail locations, as well as digital platforms such as Blinkit, Croma, Ixigo, Tata 1mg, and Zomato. While the current merchant list is limited, the company expects to expand its network of supported apps and physical retailers over time. Users will continue to receive the standard rewards and benefits associated with their credit cards when utilizing the service.
