Digital payments are now reaching users who rely on basic mobile phones, as PhonePe has expanded its UPI 123Pay service to supported feature phones across India. The service enables users to access essential UPI functions without an internet connection and is being introduced across select models from multiple manufacturers.
PhonePe said the service uses SMS to process transactions, including person-to-person money transfers and merchant payments. It is designed to work in areas with limited 2G connectivity and aims to bring UPI services to more than 200 million feature phone users in India.
UPI 123Pay currently supports person-to-person transfers, merchant payments, bank balance checks and transaction history. PhonePe plans to introduce bill payments, mobile recharges and Aadhaar-based UPI registration through future updates.
HMD has confirmed support for the service on the HMD 105 2G, HMD 110 2G, Nokia 105 Classic, Nokia 105 Single SIM, Nokia 105 Dual SIM, Nokia 106 and Nokia 123 Shield. More HMD and Nokia devices are expected to receive support.
PhonePe is also providing an AI-powered voice helpline to assist users with setup. The service supports English and 12 Indian languages, offers step-by-step activation guidance and answers basic UPI-related queries.
Users can activate the service through the pre-installed PhonePe app on a compatible feature phone. They need to accept the terms and conditions, select their bank, enter the last 6 digits of their debit card and its expiry date, and create a UPI PIN.
After registration, payments can be made using a contact, mobile number or UPI ID. Feature phones with cameras can scan QR codes. Users then verify the recipient details, enter the amount and UPI PIN, and confirm the transaction.
UPI 123Pay is initially available on select feature phones from HMD, Nokia, Lava International and Itel Mobile. PhonePe plans to extend support to additional models in the coming months.
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