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Indonesia’s digital payment landscape is experiencing rapid evolution, but a key feature of the latest upgrade remains inaccessible to a significant segment of the population: iPhone users. Bank Indonesia (BI) launched QRIS Tap in March 2025 as a faster, more convenient alternative to scanning QR codes, utilizing Near Field Communication (NFC) technology. Though, as of February 24, 2026, the contactless payment system remains unavailable on iPhones due to restrictions imposed by Apple on third-party NFC access.
The inability of iPhone users to utilize QRIS Tap represents a notable gap in Indonesia’s efforts to expand digital financial inclusion. Although QRIS Tap has gained traction among Android users, with over 475,000 transactions processed as of February 23, 2026 – a monthly growth rate of 7.9 percent – the exclusion of iPhone users limits its reach. The total transaction value associated with QRIS Tap has reached approximately 4.6 billion Indonesian Rupiah, marking a 6.4 percent increase month-over-month, according to BI.
Apple’s Restrictions on NFC Access
The core issue lies with Apple’s policy of limiting NFC functionality on iPhones to its own Apple Pay service. “iPhone QRIS users are asked to be patient as Apple has not yet opened its NFC feature. It only opens for Apple Pay,” explained Filianingsih Hendarta, a Deputy Governor at BI, in a recent statement. This means that while iPhones possess the necessary NFC hardware, software restrictions prevent third-party applications, like those powering QRIS Tap, from accessing it.
BI officials have confirmed that discussions with Apple are ongoing. Both Apple Indonesia and representatives from Apple’s headquarters have engaged with BI to explore the possibility of opening NFC access for QRIS Tap. According to Hendarta, Apple is “examining the QRIS Tap feature to spot the possibility of opening the NFC feature as they have done in the European Union.”
How QRIS Tap Works and Its Growing Adoption
QRIS Tap streamlines the payment process by eliminating the necessitate to scan a QR code. Instead, users simply tap their NFC-enabled smartphone against a payment terminal to complete the transaction. This method offers a faster and more seamless experience compared to traditional QR code scanning. The system is gaining popularity across various sectors, particularly in transportation, hotels, and restaurants.
Currently, QRIS Tap is exclusively available on Android devices with active NFC functionality and compatible payment applications. Users open their chosen QRIS-supporting app, select the QRIS Tap method, and then hold their phone near the NFC terminal to initiate the payment. The transaction is processed in real-time, without requiring a visual scan of a QR code.
Transaction Volume and Future Prospects
Despite the iPhone limitation, the adoption of QRIS Tap continues to climb. BI reports that the system has processed over 475,000 transactions, demonstrating a monthly growth rate of 7.9 percent. The total value of these transactions reached approximately 4.6 billion Indonesian Rupiah, representing a 6.4 percent month-over-month increase. This growth underscores the increasing preference for contactless payment methods among Indonesian consumers.
The expansion of QRIS Tap is a key component of Bank Indonesia’s broader strategy to digitalize the national payment system. The goal is to accelerate and simplify transactions, particularly in high-frequency sectors like public transportation, modern retail, hospitality, and restaurants.
The future availability of QRIS Tap on iPhones hinges on Apple’s decision regarding opening NFC access to third-party developers. BI has stated its commitment to continued coordination with all stakeholders to enhance the interoperability of the national digital payment system and encourage broader device support for QRIS Tap. As of now, there is no confirmed timeline for when iPhone users will be able to utilize the contactless payment feature.
Readers seeking more information about QRIS and digital payments in Indonesia can find resources on the Bank Indonesia website.
The situation highlights the complexities of navigating the digital payment landscape in a world dominated by large technology companies. While Indonesia continues to push for greater financial inclusion through innovations like QRIS Tap, the success of these initiatives is increasingly tied to the policies and decisions of global tech giants like Apple.
