Apple Expands Tap to Pay on iPhone to Five New European Markets

Apple has launched its Tap to Pay feature in five new European countries. The service is now live in Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Monaco, and Norway. This move allows businesses to accept contactless payments directly on an iPhone. No extra hardware like a card reader is needed.

The expansion was confirmed by Apple in an official announcement. It significantly broadens the feature’s availability across the European continent. This provides a powerful new tool for merchants of all sizes.

How Tap to Pay Transforms iPhone into a Payment Terminal

Tap to Pay utilizes the iPhone’s built-in NFC technology. Sellers can accept payments from Apple Pay, contactless credit cards, and other digital wallets. All transactions are encrypted for security. According to Reuters, such fintech expansions are key for small business growth.

The process is straightforward for both merchants and customers. A seller simply opens a supporting payment app and registers the sale. The customer then holds their device or card near the merchant’s iPhone. The payment is processed securely and quickly.

Broader Implications for European Commerce and Security

This rollout deepens Apple’s integration into the financial services sector. It positions the iPhone as an all-in-one tool for commerce. For small businesses, it lowers the barrier to accepting modern payments. They no longer need to invest in separate terminal hardware.

Security remains a paramount concern. Apple states it has no information about what is purchased or who buys it. The system also supports PIN entry for added security. This addresses a key requirement for higher-value transactions in Europe.

The expansion of Tap to Pay on iPhone marks a significant step in digital payment accessibility. It empowers businesses with a simple, secure solution. This technology is set to become a standard for modern retail.

Info at your fingertips

Which iPhones support Tap to Pay?

The feature requires an iPhone XS or a newer model. This includes all iPhone models released from 2018 onwards. The device must be running a recent version of iOS.

Which payment platforms are supported in these new countries?

Support varies by country. For example, SumUp and Revolut are available in Estonia and Lithuania. Norway has the widest support, including platforms like Adyen, Stripe, and PayPal.

Is Tap to Pay on iPhone secure?

Yes, all transactions are encrypted using NFC technology. Apple has emphasized that it does not collect data on what is purchased or who is making the purchase.

How does this benefit small businesses?

It eliminates the need for expensive credit card terminals. This reduces startup costs for small merchants and solo entrepreneurs. It also provides greater flexibility for mobile businesses.

Where was Tap to Pay available before this expansion?

The service first launched in the United States in early 2022. It has since rolled out to several other countries, including the UK, France, Germany, and Australia.