Apple Card users can now earn 5% Daily Cash at Walgreens and Duane Reade through May 20, up from the standard 3% rate. The offer applies to in-store and online purchases, with a combined spending cap of $500 across both retailers, capping cashback rewards at $25. This limited-time promotion coincides with Apple’s broader push to expand the card’s utility for everyday spending.

The $25 maximum cashback reflects the $500 combined purchase limit, a detail often overlooked by users. While the boosted rate applies only to Walgreens and Duane Reade, Apple Card holders typically earn 2% on most other retailers and 1% on groceries. The U.S.-only card remains inaccessible internationally, limiting the offer’s reach.

This move aligns with Apple’s strategy to position the card as a competitive payment option alongside rivals like Chase and Capital One. By targeting pharmacy chains, Apple taps into a high-frequency spending category, though the short duration of the promotion may reduce its long-term appeal. Analysts suggest the offer could drive incremental card adoption among iPhone users.

Why does this matter? The Walgreens deal exemplifies Apple’s efforts to differentiate the Apple Card in a saturated credit card market. However, the $25 cap and limited timeframe raise questions about the program’s sustainability. As one user noted, “The real question is whether Apple will expand such perks beyond niche retailers or maintain its focus on exclusivity.”