Apple Pay, the popular digital payment service used worldwide, could soon launch in Pakistan, something many iPhone users have been waiting for.
According to reports, the service could arrive in Pakistan as early as late December 2026.
Users have reportedly spotted Apple Pay options and banners in local banking apps, including HBL. Testing reports have also emerged involving banks such as Standard Chartered, Bank Alfalah and UBL, raising hopes of an upcoming launch.
Apple Pay was officially announced on September 9, 2014, and launched in the United States on October 20, 2014. However, despite being available in several countries for years, the service has yet to officially arrive in Pakistan.
For those unfamiliar with the service, Apple Pay works similarly to Google Wallet, allowing users to make contactless payments using their devices without carrying physical debit or credit cards.
However, unlike Google Wallet, Apple Pay is designed exclusively for Apple devices, including iPhones and Apple Watches, and is not available on Android phones.
Pakistan strengthens its digital sector
The Pakistani government appears to be making efforts to strengthen Pakistan’s technology sector under the leadership of Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif, with the potential arrival of Apple Pay adding to the country’s digital payment developments.
Earlier, Google also opened its office in Islamabad. The office was inaugurated at a ceremony attended by PM Shehbaz Sharif and Google’s Vice President for Government Affairs and Public Policy, Wilson L. White.
