4 New Features Enabled by Apple Pay
Apple has announced the introduction and launch of four new features for its Apple Pay digital payment service, alongside a significant expansion of its coverage with the addition of US retail giant Walmart to the list of supported merchants. These updates coincide with iOS 27, which is scheduled for official release in the fall of 2026.
One of the most notable changes is a new payment interface that simplifies switching between cards during purchases on websites and apps. The new interface allows users to swipe through cards easily, view a grid of all available cards, and display detailed information for each card, including rewards, balances, and buy-now-pay-later options.
Apple has entered into a new partnership with American Express, enabling cardholders to pay using their reward points when shopping online or within apps. A new option titled “Use Rewards” appears in the payment interface alongside the available points balance, allowing points to be applied toward the full or partial amount of purchases. Each point is worth 0.7 cents when redeemed through Apple Pay, meaning 10,000 points equal $70.
iOS 27 introduces a new feature that allows customers to securely share their information with participating merchants, such as email addresses, shipping addresses, and loyalty details, simply by holding their phone near the merchant’s device. Customers can also view their shopping cart contents in real time to ensure all discounts and exemptions are applied correctly before completing the payment via Apple Pay.
Later this year, iPhone users will be able to manage their debit card balances directly through the Apple Pay interface, adding funds to the card supported by the digital wallet or during the payment process.
Regarding the expansion of the service, after years of abstention, Walmart has finally announced the rollout of Apple Pay support in its stores, starting in Arkansas this week, with coverage across all its US stores expected by the end of the year. The expansion also includes its Sam’s Club stores.
