Apple Pay has officially launched in India, marking a significant milestone nearly twelve years after its initial announcement. The service is now available to customers of Axis Bank, which serves as the first banking partner for the rollout in the country. This development comes after years of anticipation, as India was one of the few major global markets where Apple Pay had not yet been introduced. The launch enables i Phone and Apple Watch users to make contactless payments using their devices at participating merchants nationwide.
The rollout began earlier this week, with TechCrunch reporting that Apple Pay would go live „later Tuesday” with Axis Bank leading the initiative. Users can now add their Axis Bank debit and credit cards to the Wallet app on supported Apple devices to enable secure, tokenized transactions. Apple Pay uses near-field communication (NFC) technology, allowing users to pay by simply holding their device near a contactless reader. Security features include device-specific tokens and biometric authentication via Face ID or Touch ID, ensuring that actual card details are never shared with merchants.
Once a card is added to the Wallet app, users can authenticate payments using their device’s biometric sensors or passcode. Each transaction generates a unique dynamic security code, preventing reuse of payment data. Axis Bank customers can also view transaction history and manage their cards directly within the Wallet interface. The service supports both in-store and in-app purchases, expanding digital payment options in a market that has seen rapid growth in UPI-based transactions. Apple has emphasized privacy, stating that it does not track what users buy or how much they spend.
While Axis Bank is the initial partner, Apple has indicated plans to expand support to additional financial institutions in the coming months. The company typically works with multiple banks and card networks to broaden availability after an initial launch. Industry analysts suggest that inclusion of other major banks could accelerate adoption, particularly among urban consumers already familiar with digital wallets. However, widespread use may depend on merchant readiness, as NFC-enabled point-of-sale terminals are still not universal across smaller retail outlets in India.
How do I set up Apple Pay on my i Phone with an Axis Bank card? Open the Wallet app, tap the plus sign, and follow the prompts to add your Axis Bank debit or credit card. You may need to verify the card via SMS or bank authentication before it is approved for use.
Is Apple Pay safe to use for transactions in India? Yes, Apple Pay uses tokenization and biometric authentication to protect your payment information. Your actual card number is not stored on your device or shared with merchants, reducing the risk of fraud.
Can I use Apple Pay for online purchases in India? Yes, Apple Pay works within apps and on websites that support the payment method. Look for the Apple Pay button at checkout and authenticate using Face ID, Touch ID, or your device passcode.