Apple Pay is closer than ever to launching in the Netherlands

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iphone
Apple Pay looks set to launch any time now.
Photo: Ste Smith/Cult of Mac

Apple Pay looks closer than ever to going to live in the Netherlands, with the service now promoted to “beta” status within Apple.

The news comes one day after a mobile banking service seemingly confirmed that Apple Pay is on its way to 16 new markets. It’s not clear whether any locations in the Netherlands are currently testing Apple Pay.

Earlier this month, Dutch bank ING revealed that Apple Pay was on its way. While it didn’t give any indication beyond “soon” it did suggest that a launch was imminent.

It’s not clear exactly which banks will support Apple Pay in the Netherlands. ABN AMRO has confirmed discussions with Apple, while Bunq and Rabobank haven’t confirmed or denied support. Volksbank, which includes SNS, ASN and RegioBank, has suggested that it is taking a wait-and-see approach.

Apple Pay’s expansion

Apple first introduced Apple Pay to its first market, the U.S., on October 20, 2014. Since then, it has rolled out the service in numerous countries.

Provided that it’s next to launch, the Netherlands will mark the 36th market for Apple Pay. Apple has stated that it plans to have expanded to 40 regions by the end of 2019. You can check the list of supported countries on Apple’s website.

Via: MacRumors

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