Apple Pay is expected to launch in India by the end of 2026. It can give direct competition to UPI apps like Google Pay and PhonePe. Initially, Apple Pay will focus on card-based contactless payments, with the ‘Tap to Pay’ feature being key. India is a large and fast-growing market for Apple, where the number of iPhone users is continuously increasing.
When and how will Apple Pay come to India?
There are plans to bring Apple Pay to India in different phases. The first phase will focus on card-based contactless payments. In this, users will be able to add their debit or credit card to Apple Wallet and make payments by tapping on NFC-enabled machines from their iPhone or Apple Watch.
Currently, Indian cards cannot be added to Apple Wallet. Apple is also in talks with global card networks like Visa and Mastercard as well as banks. UPI integration will be done in later stages as it requires separate regulatory approvals and the process is a bit complex.
Regulatory approvals and fees are under negotiation, which includes complying with regulations such as RBI and NPCI. Currently, Apple Pay is available in India only for international payments (like through Razorpay or Cashfree), and not for domestic transactions.
What is ‘Tap to Pay’ feature
‘Tap to Pay on iPhone’ is a feature that allows the iPhone to be used as a point-of-sale terminal. Users can easily make payments by tapping their iPhone or Apple Watch on the contactless payment terminal. It will work at places like shops, restaurants and petrol pumps.
It works on NFC technology and will support payments online, in-app or in stores. Apple Pay is already available in 89 countries and is linked with over 11,000 banks.
What will be the benefit to users and Apple
Both users and the company will benefit from the arrival of Apple Pay in India.
Security and Convenience: In this, card information is not shared directly, which reduces the risk of fraud. It will be easy to make payment through Apple Watch also. Competition in the market: iPhone users will get a new option in a market dominated by UPI. Apple’s Indian market share is estimated to be 9-10% in 2025. For Apple: The company hopes that this feature will connect users more strongly with its ecosystem. Samsung already offers a similar feature on its devices called Samsung Pay.
Although it is already easy to make digital payments through UPI in India, after the arrival of Apple Pay, iPhone users may not need other payment apps as much.
Will no one ask about UPI apps now?
Apple Pay is also primarily a payment app. Many people may think that this will reduce the popularity of UPI apps, but it is not so. Apple Pay will be limited only to Apple users, and it is not necessary that all the users will leave UPI apps and come to Apple Pay. In such a situation, it is not expected to make much difference on UPI apps.
Disclaimer: Before taking any financial or payment related decision, do your due diligence based on your information. This information is for general knowledge only.
Last Updated: 22 January 2026