Apple has launched their Apple Pay mobile payment system in Japan. The service is now available on the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus, as well as the new Apple Watch 2. This marks a significant step for Apple as they continue to expand their mobile payment services globally.
Integration with FeliCa Technology
Apple Pay in Japan works with the FeliCa contactless payment system, a widely used technology in the country. FeliCa is a type of RFID technology developed by Sony, and it is used in various applications such as public transportation, electronic money cards, and access control. The integration of Apple Pay with FeliCa means that users can now make quick and secure payments using their iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, or Apple Watch 2 at any of the more than two million FeliCa-compatible payment terminals across Japan.
However, it is important to note that only the latest iPhones and the new Apple Watch 2 support this technology. Additionally, only the Japanese versions of the iPhone 7 and 7 Plus will work with the payment system in Japan. The US versions of these handsets will not be compatible with the FeliCa system, highlighting the region-specific nature of this technology.
Global Expansion of Apple Pay
Apple has been steadily expanding its Apple Pay mobile payment system to more countries throughout 2016, and this trend is expected to continue into 2017. The launch in Japan is part of a broader strategy to make Apple Pay a ubiquitous payment solution worldwide. By integrating with local payment systems like FeliCa, Apple is able to tailor its services to meet the specific needs and preferences of users in different regions.
For example, in China, Apple Pay works with UnionPay, the country’s largest bank card association. In the UK, it supports contactless payments through various banks and financial institutions. This localized approach has been key to Apple Pay’s success, allowing it to gain traction in diverse markets.
The convenience and security of Apple Pay are major selling points. Users can add their credit or debit cards to the Wallet app on their iPhone or Apple Watch and make payments with a simple tap. The system uses tokenization to protect card information, ensuring that actual card numbers are never shared with merchants or transmitted during transactions. This adds an extra layer of security, making it a safer alternative to traditional card payments.
Moreover, Apple Pay supports in-app and online purchases, providing a seamless payment experience across different platforms. This versatility has made it a popular choice among consumers and merchants alike.
In Japan, the adoption of Apple Pay is expected to be swift, given the country’s familiarity with contactless payment systems. The convenience of using Apple Pay for everyday transactions, such as commuting on public transportation or shopping at convenience stores, is likely to appeal to a wide range of users.
As Apple continues to roll out Apple Pay in more countries, it is also working on adding new features and improving the user experience. For instance, the company is exploring the integration of loyalty programs and rewards, which could further enhance the appeal of Apple Pay.
The launch of Apple Pay in Japan represents a significant milestone for Apple as it continues to expand its mobile payment services globally. By integrating with the FeliCa contactless payment system, Apple is able to offer a convenient and secure payment solution tailored to the needs of Japanese consumers. With ongoing efforts to expand and enhance Apple Pay, the future looks promising for this innovative payment system.
Source 9 to 5 Mac
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