Apple Pay could reach India in October, giving iPhone and Apple Watch users contactless payments through supported Axis Bank credit cards. Reuters reported the plan on September 18, while Apple did not confirm the launch date.
The reported rollout would target card payments at NFC terminals, using device authentication for quicker checkout. UPI would continue handling QR payments, bank transfers and person-to-person transactions across India. UPI currently accounts for about 84% of digital payment volume, highlighting its wider reach.
Apple Pay would mainly improve how iPhone users spend through existing cards at contactless terminals. Users could authenticate through Face ID and tap an iPhone near compatible payment terminals. Apple Watch support could also make smaller purchases easier without reaching for a phone.
Apple Pay would use tokenized card credentials instead of exposing the actual card number during transactions. The approach adds another security layer while keeping card-linked rewards, billing cycles and dispute processes intact.
The initial coverage could remain limited, since Axis Bank would reportedly become Apple's first banking partner. Apple also discussed support with HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank, although commercial terms remain unresolved.
UPI would continue covering payments that Apple Pay cannot handle during the reported first phase. QR purchases, rent payments, bill splitting, bank transfers and payments at small merchants would remain UPI use cases.
UPI Tap and Pay also brings NFC payments into India's existing UPI network. Apple's current NFC and Secure Element framework does not list India among eligible territories for third-party contactless payment apps.
India's updated payment authentication rules could support Apple's biometric approach. RBI directions that took effect in April allow possession, knowledge and biometric authentication factors for digital payments.
The biggest difference therefore comes from the payment rail rather than the tapping method. Apple Pay turns an existing card into a digital credential, while UPI connects payments directly with bank accounts.
For iPhone users, Apple Pay could make card payments faster at organized retailers. UPI would remain essential for India's QR-first payment economy and everyday transfers.
Apple's reported entry therefore adds another payment option rather than replacing India's dominant system. The bigger change could come later if Apple brings UPI integration or wider NFC access to India.
Also Read: Samsung Wallet UPI Update: Fingerprint Authentication Now Available in India