Apple Pay is a go-to feature for iPhone users when shopping in stores, online, and in apps. Apple recently announced four new features that make Apple Pay even better. Here’s how they work, plus a major expansion rolling out now.
New design in iOS 27
One of my favorite changes in iOS 27 is the redesigned Apple Pay payment interface. The new interface makes it much easier to switch between different cards during the checkout process on websites and apps.
In the new design, you can easily switch between cards on the main Apple Pay payment screen. You can also tap a card to see a grid of all your available Apple Pay cards.
The layout also makes it easy to view information about individual cards, including rewards, balances, pay later options, and more.
iOS 27 was released to everyone last week. You can update in the Settings app on your iPhone.
American Express Rewards
Apple and American Express recently announced a new partnership that lets you pay with American Express rewards points.
When you shop online or in apps with an American Express card, you’ll see a new “Use Rewards” option along with your available Membership Rewards points balance. You can apply points to cover all or part of your purchase, directly in the Apple Pay payment flow.
American Express points redeemed through Apple Pay are worth 0.7 cents each. For example, this means 10,000 points can be redeemed for $70 applied to your purchase.
Tap to share
In iOS 27, Apple adds a new “Tap to Share” feature that integrates with Apple Pay on iPhone for in-store purchases.
This feature is an extension of Tap to Pay on iPhone. Apple explains:
With just one tap, customers can connect to a participating merchant’s iPhone for a faster, more personalized in-store shopping experience that allows for secure sharing of information such as email and other contact information, shipping address, loyalty rewards information, and more.
Customers will also be able to see the items in their basket in real time so they can keep track of what they have purchased and ensure all sales and discounts are applied correctly.
When finished, shoppers can complete the payment on their iPhone using Apple Pay.
Reload debit cards
iPhone users with select banks can manage their debit card balances directly in the Apple Pay interface. According to Apple, you’ll be able to use Apple Pay to add money to a compatible debit card directly in Apple Wallet or at checkout.
Bonus: Apple Pay at Walmart
This is not really a new feature developed by Apple. Instead, it’s something that should have happened years ago and finally came true. Walmart has announced that it is finally starting to roll out support for Apple Pay. Apple Pay is also being rolled out at Sam’s Club as part of this initiative.
Walmart began rolling out Apple Pay (and broader contactless support) this week in Arkansas. The retailer says it will launch in all US stores later this year.
Wrap
As Apple Pay continues to rise in popularity and prevalence among retailers, it’s great to see Apple continue to improve the experience. Personally, Apple Pay is my preferred payment method basically everywhere I shop, whether online or in-store.
How often do you use Apple Pay? What are your favorite Apple Pay features? Let us know in the comments.
My favorite Apple deals right now:
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