¡Olé! Apple Pay finally debuts in México

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Apple Pay Tap-to-Pay
Citibanamex is one of the banks that now supports Apple Pay in Mexico.
Photo: Apple

Add Mexico to the lengthy list of countries where Apple Pay can be used. Support for the iPhone and Apple Watch contactless payment system began Tuesday — which is quite a delay considering Apple Pay began rolling out in 2014.

This is a benefit both to citizens of Mexico and also to the many tourists who visit.

Apple emphasizes that its system is safer and more convenient than using credit cards. “You can make contactless, secure purchases in stores, in apps, and on the web,” it points out. “And you can send and receive money from friends and family right in Messages.”

Currently, Apple Pay is supported by Citibanamex, Banorte, American Exprtess and MasterCard in Mexico, according to Apple’s website. And a number of chains offer service in the country as well, including 7-Eleven, Domino’s, P. F. Chang’s and more. The iPhone maker urges other businesses to join them.

It’s not clear why it took so long for a signature iOS feature to arrive in Mexico, a country of 130 million people adjacent to Apple’s home country. Especially as there’ve been hints that this is coming for almost a year. But the wait is over.

More about Apple Pay

Apple Pay is built into every type of Apple computer, from desktops to wearables. It does take a little bit of setup, though. Users must add their credit or debit cards to make payments.

iPhone and Apple Watch users can also use the system in stores or restaurants with compatible point-of-sale machines. It can even be used with many transit systems.

And Apple Card holders who use Apple Pay when shopping online or in-app get 3% Daily Cash back.

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