A Step-By-Step Guide To Making UPI Payments On WhatsApp
The advent of the Unified Payments Interface ( UPI ) undeniably revolutionized the landscape of digital payments in India, offering unparalleled convenience. Today, UPI reigns supreme as the preferred mode of transaction for numerous Indians, facilitating transactions both big and small with remarkable ease. In 2020, WhatsApp took a significant stride in this direction by piloting its UPI-based payment feature. Following a successful trial, WhatsApp seamlessly integrated UPI payments into its platform for its Indian users.
WhatsApp boasts a colossal subscriber base in India, estimated at a staggering 535.8 million as of 2024, positioning it as a formidable player in the realm of digital payments. Despite this, WhatsApp still trails behind competitors like Google Pay and PhonePe in person-to-person transactions.
For those contemplating the activation of UPI payments via WhatsApp, the process is refreshingly straightforward:
- Initiate the transaction by opening the WhatsApp chat window of the intended recipient. Click on the attachment icon.
- Select the 'Payment' option and consent to the terms and conditions presented.
- Enter the desired amount for transfer, authenticate the transaction with your UPI pin, and await the completion of the payment.
With this streamlined process, making a payment via WhatsApp is as effortless as sending a text or sharing documents. Both the sender and recipient receive instant notifications regarding the transaction directly within their WhatsApp chat window. However, for those seeking additional reassurance regarding the status of the payment, confirmation can be sought by reviewing bank transfer details in the SMS or verifying transaction specifics through the bank's interface.
Configuring WhatsApp UPI is equally hassle-free:
- Navigate to WhatsApp Settings and select the Payments option.
- Choose the 'Add new account' feature.
- Select your bank from the list of options provided, ensuring that the chosen bank account is linked to your UPI account.
- Upon selecting the bank account, you will be prompted to set a UPI pin.
- Complete the setup process by configuring your UPI pin, thereby enabling seamless WhatsApp UPI transactions.
In addition to conventional UPI payments, WhatsApp offers the convenience of utilizing its QR scan feature for fund transfers:
- Access WhatsApp Settings and select the 'New Payments' option.
- Choose the 'Scan QR Code ' feature.
- Utilize your device's camera to scan the QR code.
- Input the desired transfer amount and finalize the transaction by entering your UPI PIN.
With its ongoing endeavors to expand its reach, WhatsApp is poised to emerge as a formidable contender in the realm of digital payments. The platform is currently in the testing phase for international UPI payments, wherever the service is available, indicating its potential to become a globally recognized payment solution.