Apple Pay is expanding with four new features and a long-awaited retail rollout that broadens where iPhone users can tap to pay. Apple recently detailed the updates, several arriving with iOS 27 this fall, alongside a major expansion already reaching stores now.
What’s new in iOS 27
The redesigned Apple Pay checkout interface is one of the standout changes in iOS 27. The updated layout makes it simpler to switch between cards during the checkout flow on websites and in apps. Shoppers can swipe between cards directly on the main checkout screen or tap a card to see a grid of all available options. The design also surfaces more card details, including rewards, balances, and pay later options.
iOS 27 is currently available in beta to developers and public beta testers, with a wider release scheduled for this fall.
Also arriving in iOS 27 is a new Tap to Share feature for in-store shopping, an extension of Tap to Pay on iPhone. With a single tap, customers can connect to a participating merchant’s iPhone to securely share information such as email, contact details, shipping address, and loyalty rewards. Shoppers can also view items in their basket in real time to confirm that sales and discounts are applied correctly, then complete checkout on their iPhone using Apple Pay. The feature is set to launch this fall.
American Express rewards and debit card reloads
Apple and American Express have announced a partnership that lets users pay with American Express rewards points. When shopping online or in apps with an American Express card, a new “Use Rewards” option appears alongside your Membership Rewards points balance. Points can cover all or part of a purchase within the Apple Pay checkout flow.
Points redeemed through Apple Pay are valued at 0.7 cents each. For example, 10,000 points can be applied as EUR 60 toward a purchase.
Later this year, iPhone users will also be able to manage debit card balances directly within Apple Pay. According to Apple, you’ll be able to add money to a supported debit card in Apple Wallet or during checkout.
Apple Pay arrives at Walmart
In a change many shoppers have awaited, Walmart has begun rolling out support for Apple Pay. The same initiative brings Apple Pay to Sam’s Club as well. Walmart started the rollout this week in Arkansas, adding broader contactless payment support at the same time. The retailer says Apple Pay will be available at all of its stores across the United States by the end of this year.
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Image: 9to5mac.com
