Sending money to another iPhone user is about to get as simple as holding the two handsets near each other. The upcoming feature is called Tap to Cash.
It’s a private and secure payment system. The two users don’t even need to exchange phone numbers.
Tap to Cash in iOS 18 is iPhone payments made simple
There are already a variety of ways to send money between iPhones. Beyond the obvious ones like PayPal and Venmo, Apple Cash users can use the Messages app to pay another iPhone user. Tap to Cash is a new option intended to make these cross-device transactions even simpler.
“Whether you’re at a garage sale or paying someone back for dinner, Tap to Cash makes in-person payments quick and easy without having to share phone numbers or email addresses,” said Apple.
The idea is to make exchanging money between individuals as easy as using a Tap to Pay machine in a store or restaurant.
The funds come and go from the users’ Apple Cash accounts, which are part of the Apple Wallet application.
Easy but secure
Making such a transaction requires the users to approve it with Face ID, Touch ID or passcode. Which means Tap to Cash does not allow people to walk around stealing money off other iPhones. The person sending the cash needs to approve the transaction.
But once approved, all that’s necessary for the money to move between the handsets is to bring the devices together.
Just take note, to send and receive money with an Apple Cash account, users must be 18 and a U.S. resident. If under 18, the person must be part of an Apple Cash Family account.
Tap to Cash coming soon to iPhone
Tap to Cash was unveiled at WWDC24, going on now. The feature will reach iPhone when iOS 18 launches this autumn — probably in September.
Anyone feeling impatient can sign up for the Apple Beta Software Program. It’s free, but also guarantees buggy devices.
