PayPal has launched its Tap to Pay feature for iPhone users in Germany, enabling seamless contactless payments directly through their devices. This development follows the European Union’s Digital Markets Act, which mandated Apple to grant third-party access to the iPhone’s NFC technology, previously exclusive to Apple Pay.
With this new functionality, German users can now make contactless payments in stores equipped with terminals supporting Mastercard transactions. This advancement aligns with PayPal’s broader strategy to enhance its services in Germany, including the upcoming introduction of the Ratenzahlung To Go feature. This service will allow customers to pay for in-store purchases in installments over 3, 6, 12, or 24 months. Additionally, PayPal plans to launch a cash-back reward system in the country.
Joerg Kablitz, Managing Director of PayPal Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, emphasized the significance of this launch, stating, Put simply, we believe PayPal is better than cash. Our app will make it easy and safe to pay with your phone in stores; it will give you more choice in how and when you pay; and even better—PayPal will help put money back in your pocket. He described the Tap to Pay feature’s debut as the biggest ever investment in product development for our customers in Germany, with plans for nationwide availability in the coming weeks.
It’s important to note that while this contactless payment feature is available on iPhone, it is not currently accessible on the Apple Watch. The EU’s regulations did not require Apple to open the device’s NFC chip to third-party payment services.
The introduction of Tap to Pay on iPhone in Germany marks a significant milestone in the evolution of digital payments, offering users more flexibility and convenience in their transactions.
