If you’re looking for a quick and secure way to pay, Apple Pay might be a good option to consider. Let’s say you’re at the grocery store and ready to check out, but instead of using a credit card, debit card, or cash, all you need is your Apple device. You can simply tap your phone or watch on the terminal to pay – no need to swipe or insert a card or exchange cash. Learn how Apple Pay works and why it might be a good (or not-so-good) option for you.
What is Apple Pay?
Apple Pay was first launched in 2014, and it is a digital wallet that allows you to make purchases without needing your wallet, credit or debit card, or cash, whether online or in-person at millions of merchants, including restaurants and grocery stores. You can also send and receive money to and from friends or family using Apple Pay. At its core, a digital wallet is the electronic version of your credit or debit card that’s stored in an app on your device.
How to Set Up Apple Pay?
If you have an Apple device and want to set up Apple Pay, follow these steps:
Gather Everything You Need
Before you begin the setup process, make sure you have the following:
- An eligible Apple device, such as a recent model of iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple Watch
- A credit or debit card
- An Apple ID
- The latest version of iOS, watchOS, or macOS
Open the Wallet App
Go to the Wallet app and tap the plus sign on your iPhone. If you’re on your iPad, visit Settings and open Apple Pay. On your Apple Watch, go to the My Watch tab and tap Wallet and Apple Pay. If you want to use your MacBook, go to System Preferences, then Wallet and Apple Pay.
Click on Add Credit or Debit Card
Enter your credit or debit card details, which may include:
- Card number
- Expiration date
- Security code
Note: Depending on your device, you might be able to open the app and simply hold it over your credit or debit card to scan it and add it to your digital wallet.
Wait for Verification
Once you add your credit or debit card, your bank or card issuer may need to verify that it is eligible for Apple Pay. Depending on the card you are using, this may happen automatically; you may be asked to enter a verification code; or you may need to contact your bank or credit card company directly. After your card is verified, tap “Next.”
Choose a Default Card
While you can add multiple cards to Apple Pay, it’s essential to select the card you want to use for most of your purchases.
Note: The first card you add will be the default card. However, if you want to change your default card later, go to “Default Card,” then select a new card. You can also remove any credit or debit cards linked to Apple Pay at any time.
How to Use Apple Pay?
After setting up Apple Pay, you’ll be ready to use it for your purchases online or in stores.
Using Apple Pay in Stores
Millions of stores allow consumers to use Apple Pay when shopping in-person. If you want to pay using your iPhone, open the Apple Wallet app, then hold your device near the card reader. When you do this, the default card will automatically be used for your payment. To use a different card, tap the screen and select another card.
To make a payment
Using your Apple Watch, open the app, then double-click the side button and hold your Apple Watch near the card reader. With both devices, you’ll be ready to go as soon as you feel a light tap confirming your purchase.
Using Apple Pay Online
When you’re on the checkout screen in a browser like Safari, select Apple Pay as your preferred payment method.
Next, place your finger on the Touch ID sensor to verify your purchase. Or, if you have an iPhone model that requires Face ID, double-click the side button and hold the device in front of your face to activate facial recognition. You can also enter your passcode instead. If the payment is successful, you will see a checkmark and “Done” on the screen.
For your first purchase using the digital wallet, you will be asked to enter your contact details, as well as billing and shipping information, which will become the default information. Make sure that the billing and shipping addresses match the card you plan to use for Apple Pay.
Apple Pay also keeps track of your purchases so you can see what you have spent. This can help you better manage your budget and understand your monthly spending.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Apple Pay
Advantages
- Easy Payments: Once you have set up Apple Pay, you can pay for your products and services without the hassle of searching for your credit card, counting cash, signing receipts, or doing any of the other time-consuming tasks associated with traditional payment methods.
- Increased Security: Every time you make a purchase, Apple Pay uses a unique number for your device, as well as a unique transaction code, to ensure that your credit or debit card information is not stored on any Apple servers. Additionally, merchants will not have access to your card number after the purchase is complete. You can still earn rewards: You can continue to earn cash back, points, or other rewards for your credit card if you use Apple Pay. Just make sure that the card with your favorite rewards is set as the default card in Apple Pay, and you will continue to enjoy the benefits.
Disadvantages
- Works Only on Apple Devices: If you do not have a compatible iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, or MacBook, Apple Pay is not an option for you.
- Setup Required: Your credit or debit card account information is not automatically stored on Apple devices. Therefore, it’s essential to complete the setup process first to use Apple Pay.
- Not Accepted Everywhere: Although millions of merchants online and in physical stores have jumped on the Apple Pay bandwagon, many do not accept it as a payment method. For those who own their own businesses or manage a store, it is essential to contact your payment provider to properly set up your point-of-sale device to enable Apple Pay.
Alternatives to Apple Pay
If you like the idea of a digital wallet but do not have a compatible Apple device, or if you simply want to explore other options, consider these alternative payment apps:
- Google Pay: Google Pay is similar to Apple Pay but is compatible with Android phones, tablets, and smartwatches.
- Venmo: The Venmo app is a mobile application that allows you to send and request money from others. It is available on both Apple and Android devices.
- PayPal: PayPal is a digital payment system for individuals and businesses. You can use it to send and receive payments on your mobile phone, tablet, or computer.
Considered
Digital wallets are a good option for those who want to enjoy the convenience of leaving their physical wallets or purses at home. However, they are not 100% guaranteed. If the service provider’s servers go down, you may not be able to access the app or make payments with the digital wallet. There is always a chance of data breaches as well. Make sure to use secure Wi-Fi networks, strong passwords, and passcodes, and explore other means to protect yourself when using technology.
Main Conclusions
- Apple Pay is a digital wallet for compatible Apple devices.
- Once set up, you can use Apple Pay at millions of merchants both in-store and online.
- There are many alternatives to Apple Pay, including Google Pay, Venmo, and PayPal.
Source: https://www.thebalancemoney.com/how-to-set-up-and-use-apple-pay-5090366
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