The key facts

  • Apple Pay has become available in Uzbekistan for Mastercard cards with the participation of local banks
  • In-store payments via iPhone or Apple Watch; in apps and on websites via iPhone, iPad and Mac
  • The card number is not stored on the device or Apple's servers and is not shared with the merchant

Service launch

Mastercard has launched the Apple Pay service in Uzbekistan together with local banks, the Kun.uz outlet reported. Mastercard cardholders can now pay for purchases in stores, apps and on websites using Apple devices.

How payment works

In a store, it is enough to double-press the side button of the iPhone or Apple Watch and hold the device near a contactless terminal; confirmation is done via Face ID, Touch ID or the device passcode, along with a one-time dynamic security code. According to the publication, contactless payment is accepted at grocery stores, pharmacies, restaurants, cafes, small retail outlets and other places. Purchases in apps and on websites can be paid for with iPhone, iPad and Mac without entering contact details, card information or a delivery address.

Security and setup

When paying with Apple Pay, the actual card number is not stored on the device or on Apple's servers and is not shared with the merchant: the card is linked to a unique Device Account Number, which is encrypted and stored in a certified Secure Element chip. To set it up, simply open the Wallet app on iPhone, tap '+' and follow the instructions for adding a card.

Mastercard's position

Avshar Gurdal, President of Mastercard's Eastern Europe division, called the Apple Pay launch an important step in developing Uzbekistan's digital payment ecosystem. According to him, the company is seeing rapid growth in digital payments both in the country and across the entire Central Asia region, and is implementing innovative payment solutions together with partner banks.