Send money without the internet! PhonePe's UPI service launched on feature phones..

The use of digital payments in India is steadily rising. PhonePe has now introduced a UPI payment facility for individuals who do not own smartphones and instead use feature phones. Notably, this service enables users to send money and make payments via UPI without requiring an internet connection.

PhonePe’s new UPI 123Pay service has been rolled out on select feature phones across the country. According to the company, the service operates via SMS, meaning an active internet connection is not required to send money or make payments to merchants.

This facility is expected to benefit those who still use feature phones or reside in areas with poor internet connectivity. PhonePe estimates there are over 200 million feature phone users in India and aims to integrate them into the UPI ecosystem through this new service.

What can be done using a feature phone?
Users can perform several essential tasks via PhonePe UPI 123Pay, including peer-to-peer money transfers, merchant payments, checking bank balances, and viewing transaction history. The company plans to add features such as bill payments, mobile recharges, and UPI registration via Aadhaar in the near future.

Which feature phones will support this service?
Currently, PhonePe’s service is available on select feature phones. HMD has announced that support will be provided for models such as the HMD 105 2G, HMD 110 2G, Nokia 105 Classic, Nokia 105 Single SIM, Nokia 105 Dual SIM, Nokia 106, and Nokia 123 Shield. Additionally, other HMD and Nokia models may support the service in the coming months. PhonePe stated that the facility is initially being offered on select feature phones from HMD, Nokia, Lava International, and Itel Mobile.

Voice-based assistance also available
PhonePe has also launched an AI-based voice helpline to assist users. This service will be available in English as well as 12 Indian languages. It provides users with step-by-step instructions on how to get started with UPI 123Pay. Additionally, answers to common questions regarding UPI can be obtained through a voice helpline.

How to get started with UPI 123Pay?
To start the service, users need to open the pre-installed PhonePe app on their supported feature phone. Next, they must accept the terms and conditions and select their bank. Then, they need to enter the last six digits of their debit card and the card's expiry date. Following this, the user must create a UPI PIN. Once registration is complete, money can be sent using a mobile number, contact, or UPI ID. If the feature phone has a camera, payments can also be made by scanning a QR code. When making a payment, the user needs to verify the recipient's details, enter the amount, and complete the transaction by entering their UPI PIN.

Beneficial even in areas with poor internet connectivity
The standout feature of this service is that it does not require a standard internet connection. Since transactions take place via SMS, it is useful even in areas with weak networks or limited 2G connectivity. This initiative by PhonePe could help extend digital payments beyond smartphones, reaching millions of people who use feature phones.

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