During the pandemic, I found it odd that people used GCash to pay for items. You just bring out your phone, scan a QR code, pay with your GCash account, and then that was it. Back then, it took longer to make a digital payment. Several years later, making digital payments is quicker, more convenient, and probably safer. We’re moving from cash to a world where paying with your phone or card is the new normal.
Today, digital payments and fintech (financial technology) are improving. Smart Communications, BPI, and Visa are introducing new ways to do so.
Apple Pay is finally here for Smart users, and it’s now available. If you’re on iOS, you can now use Apple Pay to buy prepaid load or pay your postpaid bill. No more typing in card numbers or waiting for OTPs. Just tap and go with Face ID or Touch ID. It’s the kind of smooth, secure experience Apple fans expect. For Smart, this isn’t just about making things easier. It shows that more Filipinos want safe, built-in ways to pay right from their phones.
Green GSM teamed up with BPI to make paying for electric taxi rides a lot easier. If you have a BPI account, you can now link it straight to the Green GSM app and pay for your EV taxi fare directly from your bank. No need for extra e-wallets or extra steps. It’s a small thing, but it makes it way more convenient. Green GSM is one of the few eco-friendly ways to get around. And we think this kind of partnership shows how banks can help push green tech forward.
And here’s another fintech development that’s more inclusive for everyone. Visa and USSC are rolling out something called “U Accept” for small businesses. If you run a sari-sari store or a small shop, you know that regular POS terminals are out of your budget. They’re way too expensive and complicated. U Accept changes that. Now, even small businesses can accept card and digital payments without needing to invest in new equipment. This is such a big deal for local entrepreneurs who want to grow and keep up as more customers go cashless.
All these changes show that local digital payments are growing fast. Paying bills with Apple Pay, BPI helping commuters go green, or Visa and USSC giving small shops a much-needed cashless gateway are welcome developments. Make payments easier and more inclusive for everyone.
For more local fintech news and tech updates, stay tuned to TGXP3.com.