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UPI 123Pay: PhonePe Revolutionizes Payments for Feature Phone Users

UPI 123Pay has been introduced by PhonePe, enabling users of feature phones throughout India to conduct UPI payments without needing an internet connection. This initiative focuses on the 200 million feature phone users in India and facilitates essential transactions such as person-to-person payments, merchant transactions, balance inquiries, and checks on transaction history.

Features of UPI 123Pay

UPI 123Pay will be factory-installed on chosen feature phone models from brands like Nokia, HMD, Lava, and Itel. Utilizing an SMS-based system, the service is tailored to operate effectively in regions where only limited 2G connectivity exists. Payments can be made using mobile numbers and UPI IDs, with selected devices also supporting payments via QR codes.

AI-Powered Voice Helpline

As part of this launch, PhonePe has rolled out an AI-driven voice helpline that caters to users in English and 12 Indian languages, simplifying the process of activating and using the service. Future updates are expected to introduce additional functionalities such as bill payments, mobile recharges, and Aadhaar-based onboarding.

PhonePe’s Dominance in the UPI Ecosystem

This release occurs while PhonePe maintains its leadership in India’s UPI ecosystem. According to data from the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), the Walmart-supported digital payments platform facilitated nearly 11 billion UPI transactions in July. Remarkably, PhonePe was responsible for 45.89% of the total UPI transaction volume within that month. In terms of transaction value, it processed amounts totalling Rs 14.44 lakh crore, securing a 48.33% share of the overall UPI transaction value.

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