Brazil's instant payment system, Pix, is about to become even more convenient with the introduction of Pix Tap to Pay on February 28, 2025. This innovative feature will allow users to make payments simply by bringing their smartphones close to compatible payment terminals, similar to contactless card payments.
What is Pix Tap to Pay?
Pix Tap to Pay transforms your smartphone into a payment device using Near Field Communication (NFC) technology. Instead of opening your banking app and manually entering payment details, you'll only need to unlock your phone and hold it near a compatible payment terminal to complete a transaction.
How Does It Work?
The process is remarkably simple:
- Users register their bank accounts in their smartphone's digital wallet
- To make a payment, simply unlock your phone
- Hold it near the payment terminal
- Authenticate the transaction using biometrics or your phone's security method
Partner Institutions
Several major financial institutions and payment providers are already on board:
Banks and Digital Wallets:
- C6 Bank
- PicPay
- Itaú (via Rede terminals)
Payment Terminal Providers:
- Cielo
- Getnet
- PagBank
- Stone
- SumUp
- Fiserv
- Safra Pay
- Sicredi
- Azulzinha
- Mercado Pago
- Bin
Security Features
Security remains a top priority with Pix Tap to Pay. The system incorporates multiple safety measures:
- Mandatory phone unlock before transactions
- Encrypted data transmission
- Customizable transaction limits
- Biometric or PIN authentication requirements
Benefits for Users and Merchants
For Consumers:
- Faster checkout process
- No need to open banking apps
- Same security standards as traditional Pix
- Convenient alternative to cash and cards
For Merchants:
- Reduced transaction times
- Lower processing fees compared to credit cards
- Decreased cash handling
- Improved customer experience
The Future of Payments in Brazil
This launch is part of a broader initiative to modernize Brazil's payment system. The Central Bank is also introducing other features in 2025:
- Bolepix: Integration of Pix with traditional bank slips
- Pix Automático: Scheduled recurring payments
What's Next?
While adoption of Pix Tap to Pay is optional for financial institutions and payment terminal providers, the feature is expected to gain rapid acceptance given Pix's widespread popularity in Brazil. The convenience and speed of tap-to-pay functionality, combined with Pix's instant settlement, positions this new feature to potentially reshape how Brazilians make everyday payments.
As we approach the February 28 launch date, we can expect to see more banks and payment providers announcing their support for this innovative payment method, further cementing Pix's position as Brazil's premier instant payment system.
Keep an eye on your bank's announcements to know when this feature becomes available for your account, and make sure your smartphone has NFC capability to take advantage of this new payment option.
For a comprehensive guide about Brazil's Pix payment system, check out Neobanque's detailed guide.