We’re all familiar with the Buy Now Pay Later system ever since Klarna and others have become increasingly popular. Well, they’re not the only ones wanting in, as Apple has now released Apple Pay Later. We explain how it works and if it will be available in the UK.
Being able to buy something but pay for it later or in segments means not having to wait for payday, or just making the purchase more manageable. So, it’s easy to see why the system has become so popular in recent years. No one wants to have to take a bank loan for these things, and this way keeps you in control.
It’s no surprise that more and more companies want to get involved with the BNPL industry, and Apple is no different. Though they’re known for the tech, they’re branching out with it to make Apple Pay even easier.
What is Apple Pay Later?
Zero interest and zero fees, Apple Pay Later users can split payments into four, spread out over up to six weeks.
Everything will be accessible within your Apple Wallet. You can keep track of any payments and even apply for loans, ranging from $50 all the way to $1000.
The system can be used by merchants who already accept Apple Pay for any in-app and online purchases.
Apple says that to get started with a loan, users can apply through the wallet app. Though a small credit check will take place to ensure eligibility, this will not affect credit scores. Once approved, the Apple Pay Later option will appear whenever the user goes to make an online/in-app purchase using their device.
To keep you in control, the feature gives you a calendar showing all upcoming payments. It will also show the total amount due for the month, as well as notifications the day before a payment is due. Apple also recommends setting up two-factor authentication if you haven’t already. That way, you’re as protected as you can be
Instead of being controlled by your bank, Apple Pay Later is offered by Apple Financing LLC. They are responsible for credit checks and lending.
Is Apple Pay Later Available In The UK?
No, Apple Pay Later cannot be used by those in the UK yet.
Currently, the service is only available for some in the US. Though it began to be rolled out on March 28, this was only for randomly selected users. Plus, this was only a prerelease version. There isn’t an official date for when other customers will be able to use it. However, Apple confirms it will be “in the coming months.”
That means that the rest of the US and other Apple customers around the world will get their hands on the system later on in 2023.
When it does become readily available around the world, it will be for those aged 18 and above with participating cards. Don’t worry, that means just means cards that already accept Apple Pay.
For the time being, UK fans of BNPL will have to stick to Klarna and the others. Hopefully, it won’t be long until others are given Apple Pay Later.
