Walmart still doesn’t accept Apple Pay - here’s why
Big-box behemoth has its own Apple Pay rival for checkout payments
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
Customers have long been requesting that Walmart implementApplePay at its checkouts, but the retailer has not relented, instead relying on its own method for customers to pay with their phone.
Numerous complaints acrossTwitterlament the lack of integration, illustrating the extent to which customers are hankering for the service. Given thepopularity of Apple Pay, it is hardly surprising that people are requesting its functionality at the biggest retailer in the world, boasting nearly 5,000 branches in the US alone.
Now, rather than rely on Apple Pay, the retailer has developed its own digitalmobile paymentsystem known as Walmart Pay, integrated with the Walmart app.
Walmart Pay app
Unlike Apple Pay and a number of other mobile payment methods, it doesn’t usenear-field communication (NFC), the protocol that allows devices in close proximity to instantly connect and transfer data wirelessly, instead, requiring users to scan a QR code at the checkout.
A Walmart spokesperson argued that this is a convenient way to pay, adding that Walmart has implemented other systems such as Scan & Go, available to Sam’s Club andWalmart Plusmembers, that allows them to “bypass the checkout altogether”.
Apple wants your iPhone to replace your credit card>Apple could be working on a whole host of financial and banking tools>These are the best merchants services right now
Interestingly, however, Canadian branches of Walmart have been equipped with Apple Pay checkouts since 2020.
Some have speculatedthat there may be ulterior motives behind the hyperstore’s proprietary method, such as increasing the number Walmart app users and tracking their customers' purchases.
Are you a pro? Subscribe to our newsletter
Sign up to the TechRadar Pro newsletter to get all the top news, opinion, features and guidance your business needs to succeed!
Despite Apple Pay being available inmore than 90% of storesin the US, Walmart isn’t the only major player to refuse its uptake: The Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Kroger all lack Apple Pay integration as well.
ViaMacRumors
Lewis Maddison is a Reviews Writer for TechRadar. He previously worked as a Staff Writer for our business section, TechRadar Pro, where he had experience with productivity-enhancing hardware, ranging from keyboards to standing desks. His area of expertise lies in computer peripherals and audio hardware, having spent over a decade exploring the murky depths of both PC building and music production. He also revels in picking up on the finest details and niggles that ultimately make a big difference to the user experience.
7 myths about email security everyone should stop believing
Best Usenet client of 2024
Your doctor may have an AI assistant taking notes during your next Zoom call
