Apple Pay, the digital payments service from Apple, is preparing to make its long-awaited entry into the Indian market later this year, according to industry sources. While the initial rollout is expected to be limited, full-scale payments functionality could become available by the end of 2026.

Currently operational in nearly 90 markets worldwide, Apple Pay allows users to make secure, contactless payments using their iPhone, Apple Watch, or other Apple devices. In India, the service is likely to launch with its popular “tap to pay” feature, similar to offerings in several international markets. However, the company still needs to clear multiple regulatory approvals before officially entering the space.

Apple’s entry into India’s competitive digital payments ecosystem comes with its own set of challenges. The company must negotiate commercial agreements with major card issuers and banking partners, particularly around transaction fees charged for using the Apple Pay payment gateway. These negotiations are seen as a critical step before the service can scale meaningfully across the country.

India’s payments landscape is currently dominated by UPI-driven platforms that offer fast, low-cost transactions. Against this backdrop, Apple Pay’s success will depend on how well it integrates with existing systems and how effectively it positions itself for premium and convenience-focused users.

While Apple has not issued an official statement on the launch timeline, industry watchers believe the move aligns with the company’s broader push to deepen its services footprint in India. If executed successfully, Apple Pay’s arrival could add a new layer of competition to India’s rapidly evolving digital payments market, particularly among iPhone users seeking seamless, device-led payment experiences.