Contactless payments continue growing in popularity across America. As more stores embrace tap-to-pay experiences, consumers increasingly use mobile wallets like Apple Pay as a fast, secure checkout method. But does Target take Apple Pay yet?
Overview – The Rise of Contactless Payments
Visa‘s latest industry report revealed over 100 billion contactless transactions occurred globally in 2021. That‘s a massive 120% growth versus 2020 as the pandemic accelerated touch-free payment adoption.
Mastercard saw over 1 billion more contactless cards issued across the world last year. And nearly 90% of US consumers state they will use contactless payments moving forward wherever accepted.
So major retailers are rapidly integrating NFC terminals and mobile wallet support in-store plus across their apps and websites. This allows shoppers to checkout using devices like iPhones, Apple Watch, and Android phones without needing to insert or swipe a physical card.
What is Apple Pay and How Does it Work?
Launched in 2014, Apple Pay pioneered contactless mobile payments. It allows anyone with an iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad or Mac to use those devices to pay:
- In-store by holding it near NFC readers
- In-apps for goods and services
- On compatible websites
Rather than enter actual credit/debit card numbers for each purchase, Apple Pay uses tokenization for safer transactions. This substitutes a unique randomly generated number to represent your card so your financial details stay protected.
Apple Pay can hold debit cards, credit cards, gift cards, and more. Payment is authenticated conveniently and securely using Touch ID, Face ID, or passcodes on your Apple device.
| iPhone Model | Apple Pay Compatible? |
|---|---|
| iPhone 6 and newer | ✅ Yes |
| iPhone 5s and older | ❌ No |
While Apple now leads in contactless wallet share, competing services like Google Pay and Samsung Pay work similarly. Though limited to Android devices vs Apple‘s ecosystem which seamlessly syncs across all products.
When Did Target Add Apple Pay Support?
Target has quickly evolved its mobile technology in recent years. It launched an official mobile app packed with features like order pickup, same-day delivery, cartwheel coupons, pharmacy refills, and more.
Industry reports show over 20 million unique visitors use the Target app monthly. It proved vital when Apple Pay support was added to streamline mobile checkout.
In January 2019, Target‘s Chief Information Officer Mike McNamara officially announced upcoming Apple Pay integration at checkout:
“Guests are increasingly relying on technology in all aspects of their lives, including when shopping in our stores, and we want to provide convenient and flexible payment options to fit their needs…”
While the retail giant started accepting Apple Pay shortly after across stores, rollout was gradual not instant. But now all existing terminals accept contactless payments, working seamlessly with iPhone and Apple Watch.
The Target app also incorporated Apple Pay into its checkout flow for easier mobile purchases. And as of 2022, Target.com integrated the Apple Pay API allowing online shoppers using Safari to select it at payment.
Step-By-Step Setting Up Apple Pay
If new to using mobile wallets, here‘s how to start leveraging Apple Pay when shopping at Target or elsewhere:
On your compatible iPhone, iPad or Apple Watch:
- Open the Wallet app
- Tap the + to add a credit/debit card
- Use camera to capture card details or enter manually
- Follow prompts to verify with your bank
Once cards are loaded, you‘re all set to use Apple Pay wherever contactless payments are accepted. This includes Target checkouts across all shopping channels – in their stores, app, and website.
How Does Apple Pay Work at Target Checkout?
Thanks to Target‘s system-wide contactless terminal upgrade, using Apple Pay there is seamless.
When shopping in Target stores, look for the contactless symbol on self-checkout screens and staffed registers. Hold your iPhone or Apple Watch to the reader when prompted for payment and authorize with Face ID or Touch ID.
Through the Target app, add items to your cart then select Apple Pay at checkout. Authenticate with biometrics to complete the purchase.
If accessing Target.com on an iPad or iPhone‘s Safari, Apple Pay pops up as a payment choice during checkout right alongside your saved credit cards. Authorize with Face ID and your order is placed.
Can You Use Apple Card With Apple Pay at Target?
Developed in partnership between Apple and Goldman Sachs, the Apple Card is an actual credit card optimized for iPhone and Apple Pay.
So if you also have Apple Card, yes you can absolutely use it via Apple Pay at Target!
Since Apple Card runs on the Mastercard payment network, anywhere that accepts Mastercard contactless payments works. This includes all Target checkouts.
Just note Apple Pay doesn‘t default to using your Apple Card automatically. You still need to choose it as the payment card in Wallet each transaction. Useful if you want to strategically pick different reward cards for different purchases.
Concluding Thoughts
Target has cemented itself as a leader embracing contactless customer experiences. Apple Pay acceptance now spans across its stores, app, and websites lowering checkout friction.
Over 80% of Target‘s online orders originate from mobile so streamlining commerce apps remains vital. Expanding Apple Pay allows millions of iPhone owners to easily and securely transact when shopping Target.
As credit cards and retailers continue contactless rollouts, expect mobile payments like Apple Pay to dominate over outdated magstripe swiping. So leave old wallets behind and leverage mobile to elevate your next Target run!
Let me know if you have any other questions on using Apple Pay at Target. Happy shopping!
Mike
