Apple has launched its Apple Pay payments service in India, allowing users to make contactless payments using compatible iPhone, iPad and Apple Watch devices. The launch marks Apple’s entry into one of the world’s largest digital payments markets.
Apple Pay is initially available in India for Visa and Mastercard credit cards issued by Axis Bank, with the company planning to add support for more banks over time.
Users can add eligible cards to Apple Wallet and use Apple Pay at thousands of merchants across India that support NFC-based contactless payments. The service can also be used at compatible NFC-enabled terminals globally.
“India is home to a dynamic and digitally savvy population that continues to embrace a cashless future while expecting the highest standards of security and privacy, and we’re so excited to bring Apple Pay to users in India today,” said Jennifer Bailey, Apple’s Vice President of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet.
Apple Pay Expands Merchant Network in India
At launch, Apple Pay is supported by merchants and brands including Tata and Reliance brands, Chaayos, Interflora, Le15, Comet, House of Masaba and Apple Stores. Apps such as Blinkit, Ixigo, MakeMyTrip, Zepto and Zomato will also support Apple Pay.
Apple has partnered with payment service providers (PSPs) across India to extend the service through their merchant networks, with additional merchants and applications expected to be added over time.
The initial rollout covers categories including food and beverage, travel, fashion and lifestyle, reflecting the growing adoption of contactless payments across everyday transactions.
How Apple Pay Works
Apple Pay enables users to make contactless payments without entering a card PIN or OTP at checkout. At participating stores, users can double-click the side button or Home button, authenticate using Face ID, Touch ID or a device passcode, and hold their iPhone or Apple Watch near a contactless payment terminal.
Apple Pay can also be used for purchases within apps and on websites through compatible iPhone and iPad devices, reducing the need to repeatedly enter card, billing, shipping and contact information.
Support for Mac is expected to be added soon.
Security and Privacy
Apple is positioning security and privacy as key features of Apple Pay. According to the company, actual card numbers are not stored on the device or Apple’s servers and are not shared with merchants.
Instead, Apple Pay uses a unique Device Account Number, which is encrypted and stored in the device’s Secure Element. Mastercard’s tokenisation technology also replaces card details with a unique, cryptographically secured token for transactions.
“As payments become increasingly embedded in customers’ everyday digital lives, our focus is on bringing together innovation and trust while making every interaction more intuitive and secure,” said Amitabh Chaudhry, Managing Director and CEO, Axis Bank.
Chaudhry added that the introduction of Apple Pay expands payment technology choices for Axis Bank’s eligible Visa and Mastercard credit card customers.
Apple Pay’s India Rollout
Apple Pay is already available in more than 90 countries and regions and works with over 11,000 bank and network partners globally, according to the information provided by Apple.
Suresh Sethi, Visa’s Group Country Manager for India and South Asia, described the launch as a milestone in India’s digital payments journey, as Apple combines its consumer ecosystem with Visa’s payment network and tokenisation capabilities.
Apple said users will continue to receive the rewards and benefits associated with their eligible cards when paying through Apple Pay.
Compatible Devices
Apple Pay requires an iPhone XR or later running iOS 18 or later. Apple Watch support starts with Apple Watch Series 6 or later running watchOS 11 or later.
The launch adds another contactless payment option to India’s rapidly evolving digital payments ecosystem, with Apple expected to expand bank, merchant and app support over time.
