Apple Pay Set to Launch in India: ‘Tap to Pay’ to Rival GPay and PhonePe

Apple is preparing to bring its Apple Pay service to India this year, allowing iPhone users to make payments with the ‘Tap to Pay’ feature. Users will be able to simply tap their iPhone on a payment terminal to complete transactions—no PIN required. The feature, already available via Samsung Pay on Samsung devices, is expected to strengthen Apple’s presence in India’s fast-growing digital payments market.

What is ‘Tap to Pay’?

Apple Pay’s Tap to Pay feature uses NFC technology to enable seamless payments. Users can store their credit or debit card details in Apple Wallet and make transactions without swiping or entering a PIN. Currently, this functionality is limited to Apple devices such as iPhone and Apple Watch. With Apple Pay, users can enjoy a smooth, secure payment experience within the Apple ecosystem.

Strengthening Apple’s Presence in India

India has become a key market for Apple, and the company’s growth in the country has been significant. According to IDC, Apple recorded its highest-ever quarterly shipment in India, selling 5 million units in Q3 2025. As the number of iPhone users rises, the demand for Apple Pay is expected to grow alongside, offering users a fully integrated digital payment solution.

Benefits for Users and Apple

The arrival of Apple Pay will benefit both users and the company. For Apple, it encourages users to remain within the Apple ecosystem, strengthening brand loyalty. For users, it provides access to a convenient, secure, and easy-to-use payment feature, similar to what Samsung Pay offers on Samsung devices.

Even though India already has widely used UPI apps such as GPay and PhonePe, Apple Pay will offer iPhone users a built-in alternative. Users will no longer need to install third-party payment apps, simplifying digital transactions for Apple device owners.

Will UPI Apps Be Affected?

Apple Pay will primarily serve Apple users and is unlikely to replace UPI apps. Most iPhone users may continue using UPI apps for non-Apple devices or certain services. Thus, UPI apps will remain relevant, and Apple Pay will complement—not compete with—the existing digital payments ecosystem.

With Apple Pay, India’s iPhone users will soon enjoy a tap-and-pay experience, marking another step in the country’s growing adoption of contactless and digital payment technologies.