The short answer
Tap to pay on phone accepts contactless cards and digital wallets directly on a compatible smartphone using its NFC chip. It qualifies at card-present rates, requires no hardware purchase, and can be live the same day an account is approved.
Where it shines
Field service deposits, delivery collection, market stalls, pop-ups, and as a zero-cost backup when a terminal fails mid-rush. Multiple staff phones can run on one merchant account.
What it cannot do
It accepts contactless only — no chip-and-PIN insert, no magstripe. Most merchants pair it with one inexpensive terminal to cover the small share of customers with non-contactless cards.
Key takeaways
- No hardware cost and same-day activation
- Card-present rates apply
- Pair with one terminal to cover non-contactless cards
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