Making digital payments has become easier with the growing use of Unified Payments Interface (UPI) services. Until now, customers have commonly paid at shops by opening a UPI app and scanning a QR code. However, the UPI Tap & Pay feature offers another option, allowing users to pay by bringing their smartphones close to a compatible Point of Sale (POS) machine.
The feature uses Near Field Communication (NFC) technology to complete payments. It can be useful for people making small purchases who want to avoid scanning a QR code. However, its availability depends on whether the smartphone, payment app and payment terminal support the required technology.
What Is UPI Tap & Pay?
UPI introduced the Tap & Pay feature through an announcement on its social media platform, X. According to the announcement, the facility allows users to make payments of up to ₹5,000 without entering a UPI PIN, subject to the applicable conditions.
Unlike QR-based payments, this method relies on NFC technology to communicate between compatible devices. Users simply tap their smartphones against a supported POS terminal to initiate the payment.
The feature does not require mobile internet on the user’s phone for the NFC interaction itself. However, the merchant’s POS machine must have an internet connection to process the transaction, and the customer’s device and payment application must support Tap & Pay.
Key Benefits of UPI Tap & Pay
One of the main advantages of UPI Tap & Pay is convenience. Customers can complete eligible payments of up to ₹5,000 without manually scanning a QR code or entering a PIN, making the process simpler for smaller purchases.
The feature can also be helpful when mobile data is unavailable or has not been switched on. Since the phone communicates with the POS terminal through NFC, a mobile internet connection is not required on the customer’s device for this step.
However, users should remember that the merchant’s terminal needs internet access to complete the transaction. A compatible smartphone and supported payment app are also essential.
How to Use UPI Tap & Pay
To use the feature, customers need a smartphone with NFC support and a UPI payment application that offers Tap & Pay functionality.
At a participating shop, the customer can select the supported payment option in the app and bring the phone close to the compatible POS terminal. The payment is then processed according to the app’s instructions and applicable transaction requirements.
For payments exceeding ₹5,000, entering the UPI PIN is required under the conditions described for this feature. Users should follow the security prompts displayed by their payment application.
The option may be available through supported UPI-linked bank accounts and RuPay cards linked to UPI, depending on the payment app and its supported features.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only. UPI Tap & Pay availability, transaction limits and authentication requirements may vary by payment application, bank and supported device. Users should check the latest instructions provided by their UPI app or bank before using the feature. Never share your UPI PIN or other confidential banking credentials with anyone.