Apple‘s latest iOS 17.4 beta introduces a pretty substantial upgrade for Apple Cash users, enabling the generation of a virtual card number. First highlighted by 9to5Mac and discussed by users on Reddit, the new feature addresses a significant constraint by facilitating payments in locations where Apple Pay is not accepted.

Users can generate Virtual Card Numbers to pay where Apple Pay isn’t accepted

This feature appears in the beta version, though it might not be available to all testers yet. To find out if you’re among the eligible users, you can simply visit the Wallet app, select your Apple Cash card, and look for an option to create a virtual card number. The process is straightforward, involving just a couple of steps.

Once set up, users can access their virtual card details, including the card number, expiration date, and security code, by navigating through the app’s menus. It’s worth noting that Apple Cash will maintain a distinct card number for Apple Pay transactions, which is accessible through an additional step in the app.

An update such as this greatly enhances the utility of Apple Cash. Think about it – despite the widespread adoption of Apple Pay, there are a lot of outlets where it’s not an option. Now, with the ability to use a virtual card number, Apple Cash has become more versatile, allowing users to bypass the inconvenience and fees associated with transferring funds to a bank account for non-Apple Pay purchases.

RELATED:

• Apple Vision Pro could take four generations to become an iPad Killer
• Apple is investigating touchscreen issues on some Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2
• Unlock Savings: Discount on Every Giztop Product under the New Year Sale 
• Best VR / AR Headsets of 2023 – Gizmochina

(VIA)

The post Apple Introduces Virtual Card Numbers for Apple Pay Users appeared first on Gizmochina.

Apple is pushing its mobile payment service, Apple Pay, in a big way, and they’re using the catchy tagline “#PayTheAppleWay.” So how does this work? For every $100 paid using the app, Apple gets 15 cents. It doesn’t sound like much, but this could make them $4 billion this year!

Apple Pay is poised to be the biggest competitor to Google Play soon

People love Apple Pay. Why? You don’t even need to pull out your iPhone if you have an Apple Watch. Just tap, and you’re done. No more dropping credit cards while everyone behind you gets impatient. Most stores accept it, so Apple is promoting it with TV ads. In one ad called “The Dance,” a woman struggles with her credit card, while another shopper easily uses Apple Pay. The message? You know it.

Another ad, called “Captcha,” shows a woman failing to prove she’s human online. She gives up and finds another website where she can pay with Apple Pay. Just one tap, and she’s done!

The “Pay the Apple Way” campaign is happening in the U.S. and the U.K. The company’s making this big push because the payment service is part of their second-largest business, Services, which made $21.21 billion last quarter. That’s an 8.2% increase from last year!

This new thing isn’t about selling more iPhones. It’s about getting people to use the service regularly. The company isn’t just promoting a way to pay; it’s changing the way we shop and pay for things every day. It’s more than a business for the trillion dollar company; it’s a big step into the future.

RELATED:

• Apple’s Vision Pro screens although set at 90Hz, can refresh at up to 100Hz
• Apple applies for Pineapple trademark – its love for fruits continues
• Download the Best GCam APK for Realme 11 Pro

(Via)

The post Have a Look at Apple’s Latest Ads for Apple Pay appeared first on Gizmochina.

Imagine a world where you can pay for everything with your phone. No more carrying cash or a wallet. Just tap your phone to pay at the store, restaurant, or even the street food vendor. This world already exists in many North American and Western European countries, thanks to companies like Apple, Google, and Samsung. Their payment systems, like Apple Pay, are used by millions of people every day. Apple is now looking to bring Apple Pay to India. Here are the details….

Apple’s Long-Awaited Entry into the Indian Digital Payments Market

Establishing a payment system is a complicated process, as each country has its own legal requirements. As a result, companies must go through a lengthy legal process before they can start operating in a new country. Apple is no stranger to this process, as it has had to go through it in every country where it has launched its payment system. The company is now restarting talks with Indian authorities about launching Apple Pay in the country.

We say “restarts” because this isn’t the first rodeo for the company. Apple has been trying to launch Apple Pay in India for a while now. In 2017, the company had discussions with the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI a special division of India’s central bank) about bringing Apple Pay to the country. However, those talks fell through due to disagreements about fees and other conditions. Now, Apple is restarting talks with the NPCI about launching Apple Pay in India.

Apple CEO Tim Cook met with bankers in India recently to discuss plans for a localized version of Apple Pay that would be compatible with UPI, a popular payments system in India. UPI is governed by NPCI. Apple Pay would allow iPhone users in India to scan QR codes and make UPI payments directly, without needing a separate payment app. This would be a convenient way for Apple users to make payments in India.

However, Apple’s job will not be easy. Mobile payment methods are currently dominated by other players such as PhonePe, Google Pay, and Paytm. Yet, as of 2023, it is estimated that about 10-12 million people in the country use iPhones. These individuals would likely choose to use Apple’s own system if given the option. So, the company is already competition-ready, even though nothing has been finalized yet. Still, only time will tell whether Apple Pay will be successful in India.

RELATED:

• Redmi Note 12T Pro vs Redmi Note 12 Turbo vs Redmi…
• Here is how Apple iPhone 15’s A17 Bionic Chip will be Modified to Cut…
• Another Apple Patent Hints towards More Efficient Gesture Navigation for Users
• How Apple Vision Pro’s Visual Search Will Change the Way We Interact with the…
• Apple Vision Pro: A Step Forward for VR, But Still a Long Way to…

(via)

The post Apple Re-Engages with Indian Authorities to Launch Apple Pay in India appeared first on Gizmochina.

Last year, Apple announced its buy now, pay later service called Apple Pay Later following the popularity of services like Affirm, Afterpay, and Klarna, among others in the US.

Now, the company has finally launched the Apple Pay Later service in the United States, which will allow users to split the payment into four installments over the course of six weeks.

With this new financing service, the Cupertino-based technology giant is promising a seamless and secure way to split the cost of a purchase without paying any interest on it. The user will be able to apply for Apple Pay Later loans of $50 to $1,000 for online and in-app purchases on the iPhone or iPad through Apple Pay.

Commenting about this, Jennifer Bailey, Apple’s vice president of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet, said, “Apple Pay Later was designed with our users’ financial health in mind, so it has no fees and no interest, and can be used and managed within Wallet, making it easier for consumers to make informed and responsible borrowing decisions.”

Currently, the service will be available only to randomly selected users who will get early access to a prerelease version. The company adds that it is planning to offer this feature to all eligible users in the coming months.

RELATED:

• Apple CEO Tim Cook meets China’s Li Qiang to show lasting commitment to the Chinese market
• Apple is Rolling Out iOS 16.4 to iPhones & iPads, New Emoji, Features & More
• Apple Car to Feature Components from iPhone 3D Sensor Supplier
• Apple iPhone 15 lineup with eSIM-only version to launch in more countries
• Apple Autonomous Vehicle Program Grows to Over 200 Drivers with One Minor Collision

The post Apple Pay Later service is now finally available in the United States appeared first on Gizmochina.

The European Union has officially objected to Apple yet again. This time, the European Commission has issued a Statement of Objections to the company for limiting third party access to its Apple Pay NFC system.

According to a MacRumors report, the Cupertino based giant is facing backlash for restricting third party payment services from accessing the NFC payment feature on its iPhones. In other words, the brand is basically restricting competition in mobile wallets on the iOS platform as a whole. The European Commission also added that further investigation will be commenced before any actions are taken against the company.

The original statement reads, “The European Commission has informed Apple of its preliminary view that it abused its dominant position in markets for mobile wallets on iOS devices. By limiting access to a standard technology used for contactless payments with mobile devices in stores (‘Near-Field Communication (NFC)’ or ‘tap and go’), Apple restricts competition in the mobile wallets market on iOS.” Furthermore, the European Commission’s Executive Vice President Margrethe Vestager said that the access to NFC is a requirement for any of Apple’s competing mobile wallet services

She further added that “Developing a mobile payment application is costly. Investment may only be worth it if developers can reach both Apple and Android customers. Evidence on our file indicates that some developers did not go ahead with their plans as they were not able to reach iPhone users. This behavior stifled innovation and prevented competition in the mobile wallet market. As a result, European consumers have little choice of mobile payment solutions when paying in shops.” In its defense, Apple cited security risk as the reason for limiting NFC access but the regulator’s investigation has not found any evidence of said risk.

RELATED:

• Apple supplier expands recruitment plans due to strong iPhone 13 sales
• Apple to reportedly use self developed 5G modem chip for iPhone from next year
• Apple Watch Series 8 may feature body temperature measurement, depending on the algorithm, says Kuo

The post Apple faces backlash from EU for limiting 3rd party access to Apple Pay NFC appeared first on Gizmochina.

Apple is apparently working on a new payment processing technology for a multiyear plan to expand its financial services and products. The company is developing in house technology that will help it reduce its reliance on its partners in the financial sectors.

The news arrives from Bloomberg, with the report stating that the Cupertino based giant is developing a payment process tech and infrastructure. This will involve processes like risk assessment, fraud analysis, credit checks, and dispute handling, which is similar to most financial services. Furthermore, the brand is reportedly even planning on building tools to calculate interest rewards, approving transactions, and more.

The report adds that a part of the project is internally dubbed as “Breakout,” and will involve Apple’s shift away from its current financial systems. As of right now, the iPhone maker relies on its partners like Goldman Sachs Bank and CoreCard for the Apple Card, Green Dot for Apple Cash, and Citizens Bank. But with this new project, Apple will bring all of its financial services for its future products in house. At the moment, it already Apple Card and Pay, but might soon offer subscription services for its hardware and even a “buy now, pay later” option in the future.

The report states that the buy now, pay later option will be the first product from the company to launch within its new system. This will include an option for a four payment option called “Apple Pay in 4” and an option for a long term payment plan through the “Apple Pay‌ Monthly Installments.” Keep in mind that even if the report is true, it will take the brand a while to work on develop its financial services and infrastructure. So, its say to assume they are a while away for now.

RELATED:

• Apple supplier TSMC believes that demand for smartphones is slowing
• Apple reportedly shared user data with hackers that forged legal requests
• Apple iPhone isn’t getting under display Touch ID support anytime soon

The post Apple working on proprietary payment processing tech for its finance products in the future appeared first on Gizmochina.

Last month, we reported that Apple is working on NFC-enabled technology that will essentially let iPhone users receive card payments seamlessly with their device acting like a Point of Sale (POS) terminal for contactless debit and credit cards. Now, Apple has officially announced this feature.

The company has announced that the new Tap to Pay feature will debut in spring with Stripe and will empower millions of merchants across the US, from small businesses to large retailers, to use their iPhone to seamlessly and securely accept Apple Pay, contactless credit and debit cards, and other digital wallets through a simple tap to their iPhone.

Apple is not keeping the functionality exclusive to its platform and has announced that the feature will be available for third-party payment platforms and app developers to integrate into their iOS apps and offer as a payment option to their business customers.

Jennifer Bailey, the vice president of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet stated that “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.” She further added, “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.”

Once the functionality is made available, users of iPhone XS and above will be able to access the Tap to Pay feature through a supported iOS app.

For now, Stripe has launched a landing page for this new feature and is allowing businesses and individuals to participate in the beta testing of the functionality.

RELATED:

• Apple patents a keyboard that transforms an iPad into a MacBook
• Apple iPhone SE with 5G support to reportedly launch on March 8
• Apple planned to include Face ID in M1 iMac but didn’t: Report

(Source)

The post Apple announces Tap to Pay feature for iPhones, debuts this spring on Stripe appeared first on Gizmochina.

Apple is working on a new feature that would make it easier for their iPhones to accept credit card payments. The feature will likely take advantage of NFC technology present on the iPhone and enable small business owners to accept card payments directly through their iPhones.

According to a Bloomberg report, a Canadian company Mobeewave was developing this technology that would allow smartphones to take payments with just a tap of the card like a Point of Sale (POS) terminal. The feature is directed towards micro-merchants like street vendors, street artists, food trucks, etc., and provides them with an easy solution for accepting card payments without the hassle of additional equipment like a payment terminal machine.

The company was acquired in 2020 by Apple, which has ever since been working to retire and integrate into their iPhones. It is worth noting that before its acquisition by Apple, Samsung sponsored the company as a startup and the South Korean giant even integrated the Mobeewave payment acceptance technology into their smartphones and tested it in Canada. Back then, the technology was usable through a dedicated app and used NFC for reading card data.

It is currently unknown whether this feature will be a part of Apple Pay are will come with a different dedicated app on the iPhones. In the past, Mobeewave has partnered with Canada national bank to use their payment network app EasyPay, however, it remains unclear if Apple intends to partner up with an existing payment network for this endeavor.

Sources have stated that iPhone users can expect the feature to arrive on their devices in the coming months via a software update. Apple is also rumored to announce the iOS 15.4 beta soon, which may bring this feature along for testing.

RELATED:

• Apple grabs top spot in terms of smartphone market share in China
• Apple updates Personal Safety User Guide to help AirTag users beat stalkers
• Apple has “poached” Xbox engineers to build its own gaming console: Rumor
• Xiaomi Service+ app launched in India as a one stop solution for all your service needs

The post Upcoming iPhone feature will turn your device into a card swiping machine: Report appeared first on Gizmochina.

Apple has acquired Mobeewave, a Canadian startup that works on a technology to turn iPhones into mobile payment terminals. The development was first reported by Bloomberg. The acquisition could help Apple expand its reach with merchants for Apple Pay.

The company’s technology, which only requires NFC chip to work, allows users to tap on their smartphone or credit card to another device for processing payment. Since all iPhones after iPhone 6 come with NFC chip, it is compatible with all the iPhones currently available in the market.

As per the report from Bloomberg, Apple is retaining the entire team of Mobeewave, which employs around 100 people, all working from the Montreal office. It is also being reported that the office will remain as it is.

EDITOR’S PICK: Huawei to announce EMUI 11, HarmonyOS 2.0 and HMS Core 5.0 at its developer conference in September

Interestingly, Samsung had partnered with last year to enable Samsung smartphones to use the company’s technology. This resulted in a pilot program with over 10,000 downloads of Samsung’s POS app, which smaller businesses used to boost sales. Samsung’s venture capital arm is also an investor in the company.

Apple has a history of buying startups and then turn their technology into features for the company’s own products. Thus, we could see the use of Mobeewave’s technology in Apple Pay, allowing anyone with an iPhone to accept payments without additional hardware.

UP NEXT: Apple’s Secure Enclave chip reportedly found to have ‘unpatchable’ exploit

The post Apple acquires payments firm Mobeewave for $100 million appeared first on Gizmochina.

Yesterday, Apple officially unveiled Apple Pay in China, which is one of the most important markets for the Cupertino giant. However, it looks like Apple may not be the only smartphone company in China to work on a mobile payment service. IHS Analyst Kevin Wang revealed late last night that Chinese tech giants like Xiaomi, Huawei, ZTE etc are all planning to release their own payment service in the country.

So, Chinese users could soon be flooded with a number of options for paying at a store. Given their experience in the local market, they could very well provide features which are more convinient to its users. Could this be why Xiaomi decided to bring back NFC on the Mi 5 flagship?

RELATED: Xiaomi CEO confirms a bunch of features on the Mi 5

Lei Jun, the CEO of Xiaomi, confirmed via a screenshot that the phone will come with NFC. Back in 2014, the company had said that there weren’t enough NFC users for them to include it inside its Xiaomi Mi 4 flagship. But looks like a feature like Xiaomi Pay can be a compelling reason for the company to incorporate NFC inside its latest flagship.

As of now, Xiaomi has not revealed anything about a possible feature like Xiaomi Pay. But let’s wait for the official announcement of the Mi 5, which is on February 24, for more details.

Stay tuned.

The post Xiaomi, Huawei & ZTE To Release Payment Service Like Apple Pay, Says Analyst appeared first on Gizmochina.