While there’s certainly no lack in digital wallet services in South Africa, some of ‘em take their sweet time rolling out support for some major banks. Now, iPhone users can access Apple Pay services if they bank with First National Bank (FNB).
Anyone living in the Apple ecosystem will know that completely buying into its hardware and software offerings does pose a significant increase in security and accessibility. When everything’s integrated the way Apple Pay allows for, users can pay for just about anything using their Apple hardware and easily authenticate payments through Apple’s biometric system.
Apple Pay for everyone
It’s been months but FNB is finally supported on Apple Pay! pic.twitter.com/oKSVE1KlqS
— Nafisa Akabor (@nafisa1) August 3, 2021
The service officially launched in the country on 30 March 2021, after which it announced support for a handful of local banks. This included Absa, Nedbank and Discovery Bank. Shortly after, it announced support for Investec clients.
FNB customers can now add their cards to the Apple Wallet and start making purchases by tapping their iPhone or Apple Watch. This functionality will work on contactless payment terminals — you know the ones that also accept cards that tap.
Seems broken when going through the app, not sure how it got certified like this
— Alessandro Barbosa (@CaptionBarbosa) August 3, 2021
Users can add the service through their FNB app, although some have reported some bugginess in the process. Initially, however, they’ll have to make sure the app is updated to its latest version. Some may be greeted with a ‘Welcome to Apple Pay’ message. If you’re donning the Apple insignia, hit “Take me there” and choose which cards you’d like to enable on Apple Pay.
The feature is available on the following FNB accounts:
- Premier Fusion
- Private Fusion
- Private Wealth Credit
- Business Debit
- Aspire Debit
- And even virtual cards
FNB cards can also be added directly from within the Apple Pay app if you’re already acquainted with it. Standard Bank, Tyme Bank and Capitec users still have a wait ahead of them, however.