PhonePe has launched biometric authentication for UPI transactions, enabling users to authorize payments using fingerprint or facial recognition instead of entering a UPI PIN for transactions up to Rs 5,000.
With this rollout, PhonePe becomes one of the first major digital payments platforms in India to introduce biometric-enabled UPI payments at scale. The feature allows users to leverage their smartphone’s native security systems to complete transactions with a single touch, offering a faster and more seamless checkout experience.
Designed to enhance both convenience and security, the feature addresses common friction points such as forgotten PINs or failed transactions due to incorrect entries. By relying on device-level biometric verification, it also reduces risks like shoulder-surfing or PIN exposure in public settings. In situations where biometric authentication may not work, due to lighting conditions or sensor issues, users can instantly revert to the standard UPI PIN method.
In line with regulatory norms, biometric authentication serves as a secure two-factor authentication layer for UPI transactions up to Rs 5,000. For payments exceeding this limit, users will continue to authenticate transactions using their UPI PIN. The feature can be used across everyday payment scenarios including peer-to-peer transfers, QR code payments at stores, online purchases, and even bank balance checks.
Deep Agrawal, Head of Payments, PhonePe, stated that the integration is aimed at making digital payments more intuitive and secure by combining hardware-grade security with user-friendly design.
Currently, biometric UPI payments are available for Android users, supporting both fingerprint and facial recognition. iOS support is expected to roll out soon.
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