Yoco Partners with Apple to Launch Contactless Payments via iPhones

South African fintech startup Yoco has announced a collaboration with Apple that brings Tap to Pay on iPhone functionality to merchants in South Africa. This allows businesses to accept all forms of contactless payments—credit, debit cards, Apple Pay, and digital wallets—directly through their iPhones using the Yoco app.

Yoco, founded in 2015, has become a leading payment solution provider for small businesses across South Africa, serving over 200,000 merchants who process more than $1 billion in card payments annually. The company recently appointed Carsten Höltkemeyer as CEO to lead its next phase of growth.

The new Tap to Pay feature eliminates the need for additional payment terminals or hardware. Merchants simply prompt customers to hold their contactless payment method near the iPhone at checkout, and transactions are secured using NFC technology. PIN entry options with accessibility features are also supported.

“At Yoco, we’re committed to building products that empower independent businesses,” said Lungisa Matshoba, Yoco co-founder and co-CEO. “This partnership with Apple removes friction and gives business owners greater control over their sales process.” The launch of Tap to Pay on iPhone marks a significant advancement in mobile payment technology for South African merchants.