Setting up Apple Pay: How it works

If you want to set up Apple Pay, you can do so in just a few steps. A credit or debit card can be easily added and then used for payment.

Setting up Apple Pay: Setup steps with iOS 17 and current devices

To use Apple Pay on your iPhone or Apple Watch, you need at least one device with iOS 17 or watchOS 10. All iPhone models from iPhone 8 onwards and all Apple Watch models from Series 3 onwards are currently supported. You must also have a valid debit, prepaid, or credit card from a supported bank.

• Open the Apple Wallet app on your iPhone or Apple Watch. Tap the plus sign (+) in the top right corner to add a new card.

• Then select “Credit or debit card.” You now have the option to add your card automatically by scanning the card details or entering the details manually.

• With iOS 17, the process has been simplified and made even more intuitive, allowing your bank details to be verified securely without leaving the app.

• Just follow the instructions on the screen. You will be asked to verify your card, either through an SMS, phone call, or email confirmation from your bank, or through the associated banking app.

• In Germany, Apple Pay is now supported by many banks and institutions, including major banks such as Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank, Sparkasse, and Volksbanken, as well as newer providers such as N26, Bunq, Revolut, and Vivid Money. In Switzerland, partners include UBS, Credit Suisse, PostFinance, Neon, and Zak. You can find an up-to-date list on the official Apple website. You can also continue to add PayPal as a payment method for Apple Pay.

How to add a previously saved card

If you already have a card saved on another Apple device or for another service, you can quickly add it to your Apple Wallet:

• Open Wallet on the new device.

• Tap the plus sign (+).

• Then select “Previous cards” to view cards that are already stored.

• Tap the relevant card and verify the details again if necessary.

Everyday use and security features

With Apple Pay, you can now not only pay in stores with contactless payment, but also conveniently check in on public transportation in cities such as Berlin, Hamburg, and Zurich.

• In addition, Apple Pay is integrated as a payment method in many apps, allowing you to pay for products or subscriptions easily and securely. Websites that support Safari also allow you to pay with Apple Pay – you then confirm the payment with Face ID, Touch ID, or your device passcode.

• Apple Pay uses state-of-the-art security mechanisms: Your card number is not stored on your device or with Apple. Instead, a device account number is generated and transmitted in encrypted form. Each payment is authorized with a unique dynamic security number, so your financial information remains protected.

• If you encounter problems during setup, you can do the following: Check your internet connection. Make sure your device is up to date with iOS 17 or watchOS 10. Check that your bank or card supports Apple Pay. Restart your device and try again. If you continue to experience problems, contact your bank or Apple Support.