WhatsApp Sets Out Digital Payment Powered by UPI for its Indian Users

The popular messaging application WhatsApp is introducing UPI-based payment feature for its select users in India. Initially, this feature will be available for iOS and Android users. The payment feature is supported by Unified Payments Interface (UPI), a standard system authorized by the Indian government to facilitate digital transaction of money. WhatsApp currently has a massive user base in India, and the payment platform’s integration will enormously boost digital payments in the country.

Highlights of WhatsApp UPI Integration

UPI integration feature is now available for select WhatsApp beta users on iOS (2.18.21) and Android (2.18.41). Users can access the payment feature through the WhatsApp chat window. They can locate the feature alongside other options in the Attachments menu, such as Video, Gallery or Documents. When the user selects the payment feature, a list of banks will appear on the screen. The user can select the bank to which their UPI account is linked. After selecting the account, user can verify the details and send the money. Both the sender as well as the receiver transacting via WhatsApp should have the UPI payment option enabled on their phones.

WhatsApp has partnered with leading banks in the country including SBI, ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, Yes Bank and Axis Bank to facilitate the digital transactions. Additionally, the app will support Airtel Payments bank as well. The news of UPI integration in WhatsApp has been around the corner for more than a year. In July 2017, WhatsApp gained the approval of the Indian government for UPI integration. In the field of digital payment, WhatsApp will face stiff competition from Paytm, Google’s Tez app, and BHIM, which have already set foot in India and are backed by UPI. The popularity and convenience of the messaging platform might give a strong impetus to WhatsApp digital payment.

Related read: Google’s Tez – Upcoming UPI App for India.