Apple Pay is a mobile payment and digital wallet service developed by Apple Inc. that allows users to make secure, contactless purchases using their Apple devices such as iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, Mac, and Apple Vision Pro. It works by storing credit and debit card information digitally in the Wallet app, enabling payments at contactless-capable point-of-sale terminals, in apps, and on websites without needing the physical card
. Key features of Apple Pay include:
- Contactless payments: Uses Near Field Communication (NFC) technology to enable tap-to-pay at millions of locations worldwide that accept contactless payments
- Security and privacy: Employs tokenization to protect card details, and requires biometric authentication (Touch ID, Face ID) or passcode for authorization, enhancing security over traditional card payments
- Convenience: Allows quick setup by adding cards to the Wallet app, and enables payments with a simple double-click or tap on the device
- Flexibility: Supports paying in full, splitting payments over time, or using card rewards points. It also integrates Apple Cash for peer-to-peer money transfers and spending
- Wide acceptance: Usable in stores, apps, on websites, and for some public transport systems globally
Apple Pay aims to replace physical wallets by providing a seamless, secure, and private payment experience directly from Apple devices
. It was first launched in the US in 2014 and has since expanded to over 75 countries
. In summary, Apple Pay is a secure, easy-to-use digital payment system that leverages Apple devices to make everyday purchases faster and safer without the need for physical cards or cash.
