Apple Pay to launch in India as early as October 2026, reportedly starting with Visa and MasterCard cards while UPI support could come later.

Apple Pay to launch in India as early as October 2026, according to a recent report, potentially ending Apple's long wait to enter India's digital payments market. However, the service could debut without UPI support, meaning Indian users may initially be limited to contactless card payments.

Apple Pay Could Arrive in October

The reported launch would allow iPhone and Apple Watch users to make contactless payments at NFC-enabled payment terminals. Supported Visa and MasterCard credit and debit cards could be added to Apple Pay, with tokenisation designed to protect card information. Apple is reportedly in advanced discussions with HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank and Axis Bank over card support.

Apple has not officially confirmed the October launch and the report has not been independently verified.

UPI May Not Be Ready at Launch             

The biggest surprise is the reported absence of UPI. Apple had previously been reported to be exploring UPI support alongside card payments, but the latest reports suggest the company may take a phased approach. Technical discussions involving Apple's biometric authentication system and India's UPI requirements are reportedly still ongoing.

The difference could be significant because UPI dominates India's everyday digital payments. As one Indian Apple user put it in an online discussion, “Finally, I can pay from my watch again.” The comment reflects the appeal of Apple Pay's contactless experience for iPhone and Apple Watch owners, although such user reactions are not official confirmation of the launch.

Why Apple Wants India

India's huge digital payments market and Apple's growing premium smartphone presence make the country an important opportunity. Apple reportedly shipped around 14 million iPhones in India in 2025, giving it a sizable premium customer base for a card focused payment service.

Business Fortune believes that Apple’s entry could make contactless payments more convenient for Indian iPhone and Apple Watch users.

 

FAQs

When could Apple Pay launch in India?
Reports suggest an October 2026 launch, but Apple has not officially confirmed it.

Will Apple Pay support UPI?
UPI may not be available at launch and could be added later.

Which cards could initially work?
Visa and MasterCard credit and debit cards are reportedly being considered.

Which devices could support Apple Pay?
iPhones and Apple Watch devices with compatible NFC capabilities are expected to support contactless payments.

Which banks are reportedly involved?
HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank and Axis Bank are reportedly in discussions with Apple.