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Apple Pay, the digital payment service from the Cupertino-based tech giant, is reportedly preparing to launch in India later this year, according to a report by Business Standard.

The report also reveals the expected timeline and other details. Apple Pay India launch plans and regulatory steps The service is already available in 89 markets worldwide and is expected to make its India debut by the end of 2026. However, Apple Pay will require a series of regulatory approvals before it can roll out in the country. Once launched, the service will offer its popular 'tap-to-pay' feature, similar to what is available in other markets. Users will be able to securely store their credit and debit card details in Apple Wallet and complete transactions without physically swiping or inserting their cards. The report also suggests that Apple is currently in discussions with Indian regulators to facilitate its entry into the market. Apple will need to negotiate commercial agreements with major card issuers regarding the fees paid to the tech giant for using its payment gateway. At present, Indian users are unable to add their credit or debit cards to Apple Wallet for domestic use. However, the service does support international transactions on select Indian merchant websites through payment gateways such as Razorpay. Even after launch, Apple Pay India is likely to differ from apps like Google Pay, PhonePe and Paytm. Apple Pay works only on Apple devices, unlike these rivals, which function on Android. Further clarity on Apple Pay India should emerge once regulatory approvals, card network negotiations and technical integrations are complete.