Apple Pay is a digital wallet service that was introduced by Apple Inc. in 2014. It allows users to make payments in person, online, and in apps using their Apple devices. As of 2023, Apple Pay has been adopted by over half of all U.S. retailers and is accepted in more than 30 countries around the world. Here are 5 things you should know about:
1. What is Apple Pay?
Apple Pay is a mobile payment and digital wallet service by Apple Inc. that lets users make payments in person, in iOS apps, and on the web. It was designed to replace physical wallets and paper money.
Apple Pay does not require Apple devices to be physically touched or swiped like other contactless payment systems; instead, it uses Near Field Communication (NFC) technology to communicate with point-of-sale (POS) terminals. NFC is a short-range wireless communication technology that allows two devices to exchange data over very short distances.
When you use Apple Pay, your credit card information is not stored on your device or transmitted to the merchant. Instead, a unique Device Account Number is assigned, encrypted, and securely stored in the Secure Element on your device. Each transaction is authorized with a one-time unique dynamic security code.
2. How To Use Apple Pay
Apple Pay is a secure way to pay in stores, within apps, and on the web. To use Apple Pay, you need an iPhone 6 or later, an iPad Pro, iPad Air 2, or iPad mini 3 or later.
To pay in stores with your iPhone, look for the Apple Pay logo or Contactless Symbol at checkout. Then hold your iPhone near the contactless reader with your finger on Touch ID. You might need to sign a receipt or enter your PIN.
If you’re paying within an app, check if Apple Pay is accepted before you begin shopping. Then choose Apple Pay as your payment method and place your finger on Touch ID. If you’re using a Mac, double-click the side button on your Apple Watch.
When you’re paying on the web in Safari, look for the Apple Pay button at checkout. Then complete the payment using Touch ID on your iPhone or by double-clicking the side button on your Apple Watch.
3. What Are The Benefits Of Using Apple Pay?
There are many benefits of using Apple Pay. Some of these benefits include:
1. Increased Security – When you use Apple Pay, your credit card information is not stored on your device or shared with the merchant. Instead, a unique Device Account Number is used to process your transaction. This number is encrypted and stored in a secure element on your device. You can also use Touch ID or Face ID to authenticate your transactions.
2. Convenience – With Apple Pay, you can make purchases quickly and easily at participating merchants using your iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch. There’s no need to dig for your wallet or enter your credit card information – just hold your device near the payment terminal and confirm with Face ID or Touch ID.
3. Rewards and Discounts – Many retailers offer rewards and discounts when you pay with Apple Pay. So not only is it more convenient, but you can also save money!
4. How To Set Up Apple Pay
Assuming you have an iPhone 6 or later, an Apple Watch, or a MacBook Pro with Touch ID, you can set up Apple Pay by following these steps:
1. Open the Settings app on your device and tap Wallet & Apple Pay.
2. Tap Add Credit or Debit Card.
3. Use your camera to enter the card information or if you’re already signed in to iTunes on your device, tap Continue and enter the security code for your credit or debit card.
4. Follow the instructions on your screen to add a new card.
5. Once your bank or card issuer verifies your information, tap Next.
6. You might need to verify your identity with Touch ID or a passcode before adding a card to your Wallet.
7. After you add a card, you can use it as your payment method when you shop in stores that accept Apple Pay, make purchases within apps, pay for rides in taxis or buses, and more.
5. Which Stores Accept Apple Pay?
Apple Pay is accepted at a wide variety of stores, both online and in physical locations. In addition to major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Best Buy, you can also use Apple Pay at many small businesses and restaurants. To see a full list of stores that accept Apple Pay, you can visit the Apple website or check out this comprehensive list from Finder.
Conclusion
Apple Pay is a secure and convenient way to pay for things with your iPhone or Apple Watch. It’s easy to set up and use, and it’s accepted at millions of stores and restaurants around the world. If you’re an iPhone or Apple Watch user, Apple Pay is definitely worth considering as your go-to payment method.
Also read: How to Hide Apps on an iPhone, iPod Touch, or iPad