Apple's 'Tap to Pay' feature allows iPhones to accept contactless payments
US merchants can access the feature through a supporting iOS app on the iPhone XS or later
Apple has announced a new feature called 'Tap to Pay' that will enable newer iPhones to accept contactless payments.
The new capability will allow merchants in the US to securely accept Apple Pay, contactless credit and debit cards, and other digital wallets using their iPhone, without the need for additional hardware or payment terminals.
Payment service providers and app developers may integrate Tap to Pay for iPhone into their iOS apps and provide it as a payment option to their clients.
Customers simply need to place their iPhone or Apple Watch close to the merchant's iPhone to make payments via Apple Pay, contactless credit or debit cards, or any other digital wallets, and the transaction will be completed via near field communication (NFC) technology.
Stripe will be the first payment platform to offer Tap to Pay on iPhone to its customers.
“Whether you’re a salesperson at an internet-first retailer or an individual entrepreneur, you can soon accept contactless payments on a device that’s already in your pocket: your iPhone,” said Billy Alvarado, Stripe’s chief business officer.
“With Tap to Pay on iPhone, millions of businesses using Stripe can enhance their in-person commerce experience by offering their customers a fast and secure checkout.”
Tap to Pay will also be supported in Apple Store locations in the US later this year.
As for security, Apple said all Tap to Pay transactions on iPhone will be encrypted and processed using the Secure Element. In addition, just as with Apple Pay, Apple will be unaware of what is being purchased or from whom.
“As more and more consumers are tapping to pay with digital wallets and credit cards, Tap to Pay on iPhone will provide businesses with a secure, private, and easy way to accept contactless payments and unlock new checkout experiences using the power, security, and convenience of iPhone,” said Jennifer Bailey, Apple’s vice president of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet.
“In collaboration with payment platforms, app developers, and payment networks, we’re making it easier than ever for businesses of all sizes — from solopreneurs to large retailers — to seamlessly accept contactless payments and continue to grow their business,” added Bailey.
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