PhonePe UPI 123Pay Brings Internet Free UPI Payments to Feature Phones
PhonePe UPI 123Pay allows feature phone users to make UPI payments without internet access, using mobile numbers, UPI IDs and QR codes across supported devices.
PhonePe has introduced UPI 123Pay for feature phone users, opening another route for digital payments without requiring a smartphone or an active internet connection. The service is designed for people who continue to rely on basic mobile phones, particularly in areas where internet connectivity can be unreliable.
According to PhonePe, more than 20 crore feature phone users in India could benefit from services designed specifically for these devices. The company is positioning UPI 123Pay as a way to make everyday digital transactions accessible beyond smartphone users.
The service uses SMS based technology, allowing payments to work even where only basic 2G connectivity is available. Users can send money through a mobile number or UPI ID and can also make payments to merchants using QR codes on compatible phones.
PhonePe UPI 123Pay Registration Process
Getting started does not require a smartphone or an internet connection. Users can open the PhonePe application available on their supported feature phone and accept the required terms and conditions.
The registration process then asks users to select their bank account. They need to provide the last six digits of their debit card along with its expiry date. After completing the required verification, users can create their UPI PIN.
Once the UPI PIN is successfully established, the UPI ID becomes active and the feature phone can be used for payments.
How to Make Payments Through UPI 123Pay
PhonePe provides several payment methods for feature phone users. Depending on the handset and service support, payments can be made through a saved contact, mobile number or UPI ID.
To pay another person, users need to open PhonePe and select the option for paying through a mobile number or UPI ID. They can then enter the recipient details, check the displayed information and enter the amount they want to transfer.
The transaction is completed after entering the UPI PIN and confirming the payment. A confirmation message is displayed after the transaction is processed.
Feature phones equipped with a camera can also support the Scan and Pay option. Users can scan a compatible QR code and complete the transaction using their UPI PIN.
Support for More Feature Phones Planned
PhonePe has partnered with Nokia, HMD, Lava International and Itel Mobile to bring UPI 123Pay to supported feature phones. The company plans to expand the service to additional handset manufacturers in the coming months.
The payment platform also plans to add more services over time. These could include bill payments, mobile recharges and UPI registration using Aadhaar.
AI Voice Support for Users
PhonePe has also introduced an AI based voice helpline to help feature phone users with registration and UPI related questions. The service supports English and 12 Indian languages.
Unlike a conventional IVR system that mainly asks callers to press numbers for different options, the voice service is designed to interact with users and guide them through the required steps.
With UPI 123Pay, PhonePe is attempting to make digital payments more accessible to people who have not moved to smartphones. The service could be particularly useful for users in areas where internet availability remains limited but mobile connectivity is still accessible.
