Apple Pay is reportedly targeting a launch in India by the end of 2026, pending regulatory approvals. The company is negotiating with banks and card networks to introduce the service, which would include Tap to Pay on iPhone for contactless NFC payments at point-of-sale terminals. This marks a significant expansion into a key growth market for Apple.

UPI dominates India's digital payment landscape, but Apple is not initially seeking third-party approval for that system. The move aligns with Apple's growing presence in the country, where it achieved its highest quarterly shipments and fourth place in market share during Q3 2025. Global availability in 89 markets provides a strong foundation for the rollout.

Launching in India requires Apple to navigate complex fee negotiations with major card issuers. The timing capitalizes on the company's recent sales momentum, suggesting a strategic push to integrate its payment ecosystem into one of the world's largest smartphone markets. Success could reshape how international merchants and consumers handle transactions.