### Apple Pay Joins Forces with Affirm: A Fresh Chapter for Buy-Now-Pay-Later Solutions
In a significant transformation of its financial services approach, Apple has incorporated the widely-used buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) service, Affirm, into its Apple Pay platform, specifically for users of iOS 18. This development follows Apple’s own BNPL initiative, Apple Pay Later, which experienced an early reduction shortly after its introduction. The collaboration with Affirm not only broadens the payment choices available to Apple users but also enriches the overall shopping experience by providing adaptable payment plans directly at checkout.
#### The Transition from Apple Pay Later to Affirm
Apple Pay Later was launched with the goal of enabling users to make purchases and spread the payments over time. However, the service was swiftly limited, leading Apple to pursue a more recognized substitute. Affirm, a prominent name in the BNPL arena, enables users to purchase items through biweekly or monthly payment installments, making it a suitable alternative for Apple’s original service.
Jennifer Bailey, Apple’s Vice President of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet, conveyed her excitement regarding the integration, stating, “We are thrilled to offer users greater flexibility and options when making purchases using Apple Pay with the introduction of Affirm loans at checkout with Apple Pay.” This remark highlights Apple’s dedication to improving user experience by utilizing Affirm’s established payment services.
#### How Affirm Functions with Apple Pay
For users equipped with iOS 18 or iPadOS 18, the procedure for using Affirm at checkout is easy. When completing a purchase with Apple Pay, users can opt for “Other Cards & Pay Later Options.” After selecting Affirm, they will go through a brief eligibility assessment that does not impact their credit score.
Once granted approval, users can view personalized payment plans that are suited to their financial circumstances. After choosing a plan and accepting the terms, they can finalize their purchase using Face ID or Touch ID. This smooth integration guarantees that users can access Affirm’s offerings without exiting the Apple Pay environment, preserving the secure and private experience that Apple is renowned for.
#### Commitment to Responsible Lending
Affirm prioritizes its dedication to responsible lending practices, ensuring that each transaction is evaluated individually. This policy assures users that they can shop confidently, with no late fees or unexpected charges. The incorporation of Affirm into Apple Pay not only offers flexibility but also aligns with the increasing consumer demand for responsible financial services.
#### Conclusion
The integration of Affirm into Apple Pay represents a major milestone in the BNPL landscape, especially for Apple users. By providing a reliable and adaptable payment option, Apple strengthens its ecosystem and offers users enhanced choices at checkout. As the appetite for BNPL services continues to grow, this collaboration positions Apple Pay as a formidable contender in the financial technology industry.
For those looking to delve into the new features of iOS 18, including the Affirm integration, further information can be accessed in Apple’s launch announcements. This strategic initiative illustrates Apple’s unwavering commitment to innovation and user fulfillment in the rapidly evolving digital payment landscape.
