Apple Pay is celebrating 10 years since initial release, and has introduced installment payment options through partnerships with Affirm in the U.S. and Monzo Flex in the U.K. These services allow customers to split their purchases into smaller, scheduled payments at checkout, both online and within apps. Klarna’s flexible payment feature is also now available in these regions, so that users have more control over their spending.
Other financial partners, such as Citi in the U.S. and ANZ in Australia, are expected to use similar payment options soon. Canada will also gain access to Klarna’s plans, so that even more users get the flexibility to manage their purchases. Apple now will be using external lenders, so that customers still have access to split payments through familiar financial channels.
This change comes Apple ending Apple Pay Later earlier this year. Apple has chosen to work alongside banking partners, passing on the management of installment plans to them instead of running the programme itself.
How Can Customers Redeem Rewards Through Apple Pay?
Apple Pay users in the U.S. can now redeem points, cashback, and miles through select Discover cards at checkout. Customers can use these rewards to cover part or all of their purchase, with the system displaying the conversion value on-screen to help them decide how much to apply.
In the near future, other financial providers like Synchrony and FIS in the U.S. and DBS in Singapore will also activate reward redemption through Apple Pay. This change helps customers use their credit card benefits without extra steps or complications.
This setup mirrors the way platforms such as Amazon handle points at checkout, so its easy for users to apply their rewards instantly. Apple Pay wants to make everyday transactions smoother by integrating reward usage directly into the payment process.
Why Did Apple Discontinue Apple Pay Later?
Apple decided to close Apple Pay Later to avoid competing with the financial institutions it works with. The company now relies on partners like Monzo and Affirm to provide installment services, making sure that these institutions handle loans through the Apple Pay interface.
This keeps the payment experience seamless for users while maintaining positive relationships with lenders. Apple working with banks means users can still enjoy installment payment options without disruption, but with banks managing the process directly.
Where Is Apple Pay Currently Active?
Apple Pay is active in 78 markets worldwide, supporting payments in apps, on websites, and in stores. It connects with millions of merchants and more than 11,000 financial institutions, so its a common choice for digital transactions. Users can pay with Apple devices such as iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watches in various settings, from retail outlets to public transport.
Apple Wallet grew to hold more than just payment cards. It now stores transit cards, event tickets, and government IDs. A few U.S. states, including California and Ohio, currently accept digital driving licenses through the Wallet app, with more states preparing to adopt the feature soon.
Apple is working to replace traditional wallets with a secure and convenient digital alternative. This allows users to carry their identification, tickets, and payment options within a single platform, simplifying their everyday activities.
