Apple has announced the rollout of its Tap to Pay feature in Japan, allowing merchants to accept contactless payments directly through their iPhones without needing additional hardware. This expansion marks another step in Apple’s mission to streamline payment processes globally.
Tap to Pay enables iPhone users to take contactless payments from other phones and contactless credit and debit cards. Merchants can use the feature through several payment platforms, including GMO Financial Gate, Recruit Co’s Air Pay Touch, and Square. Another platform, Adyen, will be added in the coming months.
Japanese consumers can also experience Tap to Pay at Apple Stores, where it will be used for in-store transactions before the broader rollout to other retailers. Jennifer Bailey, Apple’s Vice President of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet, highlighted the significance of this launch: "In Japan, a country where innovation and tradition combine, new payment methods are being introduced across the country, and at the same time, consumers are rapidly transitioning from cash to electronic payments. We are excited to partner with the platform to offer iPhone touch payments that seamlessly support contactless payments for millions of merchants."
The introduction of Tap to Pay in Japan follows its recent expansions to Ukraine and France in November, and the Netherlands in August 2023. Initially launched in May 2022, the feature continues to grow in popularity, providing a convenient and secure payment solution for merchants and consumers alike.