Apple Pay Launch in India: A New Era for Digital Payments

27 Jan, 2026

Apple is on the verge of launching its digital payment service, Apple Pay, in India, marking a significant step in the country's evolving digital payments landscape. According to reports, the tech giant is currently in discussions with global card networks such as Visa and Mastercard while also navigating through the regulatory approvals necessary for its entry into the Indian market.

Apple aims for an initial rollout of Apple Pay around June or July this year. However, the exact timeline will depend on how swiftly the required approvals are secured and commercial agreements are finalized. Industry insiders have noted that Apple is negotiating fee structures with card issuers to provide access to its payment gateway, further indicating the company’s commitment to establishing a strong presence in India.

Currently, Apple Pay is already operational in 89 countries worldwide, making India a crucial addition to its international payment services. Sources indicate that Apple may adopt a phased approach for its launch in India. The initial phase will likely focus on contactless payments via near-field communication (NFC) technology. In subsequent phases, integration with India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) may be pursued, although this would require navigating additional regulatory hurdles.

Interestingly, reports suggest that Apple may not seek a third-party application provider (TPAP) license for UPI in the early stages. The approval process for UPI is complex, involving a regulatory structure that differs significantly from traditional card systems, making it a challenging endeavor for newcomers.

Apple's entry into the Indian market comes at a time when competition in the digital payments sector is intensifying. Notably, Samsung has already launched its own service, Samsung Wallet, in India, which consolidates payment and card information within its ecosystem. The integration of UPI into Samsung Wallet has increased its popularity, further solidifying Samsung’s presence in this competitive market.

Once launched, Apple Pay will allow users to add their credit and debit cards to the Apple Wallet and make contactless payments by tapping their devices on compatible point-of-sale terminals. Currently, Indian bank-issued cards cannot be added to the Apple Wallet, highlighting the need for further integration.

This move aligns with the broader trend of increasing electronic transactions in India, which encompasses cards, digital wallets, and UPI. Apple has also seen a rise in its market presence, recording its highest-ever iPhone shipments in India during 2025, with its market share estimated at 9-10%, placing it among the top five smartphone brands in the country.

Even before the official launch, several fintech firms in India have started preparing for Apple Pay's anticipated arrival by integrating the service for international transactions, signaling confidence in its potential success.