How to use Apple Pay when phone is off?

Power Down, Pay On: Using Apple Pay’s Express Mode When Your iPhone Is Off

Your iPhone battery died. Panic sets in – you’re about to make a purchase and your phone, your digital wallet, is lifeless. But fear not! Apple’s clever Express Mode within Apple Wallet can still save the day, allowing you to make certain contactless payments even when your device is powered down.

This isn’t a magical resurrection of your battery; it’s a specific functionality designed for speed and convenience in select situations. Express Mode leverages the power-saving capabilities of your iPhone’s Near Field Communication (NFC) chip to facilitate quick transactions. However, it’s crucial to understand its limitations and how it works.

What Express Mode Enables (and Doesn’t):

Express Mode lets you use your Apple Wallet cards, keys, and passes at compatible terminals without needing to unlock your phone or authenticate with Face ID or Touch ID. This means a streamlined process – simply hold your iPhone near the contactless payment reader.

However, Express Mode is not a universal solution:

• Not all cards are supported: Not every card added to your Apple Wallet will work with Express Mode. Check your individual cards within the Wallet app to see if the Express Mode toggle is available. Typically, credit, debit, and prepaid cards offered by participating banks are compatible.
• Limited transaction types: While it’s great for quick contactless payments, Express Mode usually won’t work for higher-value transactions or those requiring additional security checks. The exact limits depend on the merchant and your card issuer.
• Phone needs to be sufficiently charged before power down: If your phone’s battery is completely depleted, Express Mode may not function. A small amount of residual power is necessary for the NFC chip to activate.
• It’s not a replacement for a fully powered device: Remember, this is a limited functionality. For most scenarios, having a charged phone is still the best practice.

How to Enable (and Check) Express Mode:

1. Open the Wallet app: Locate the app on your iPhone’s home screen.
2. Select a card: Tap on the card you wish to use with Express Mode.
3. Check for Express Mode: Look for a toggle switch labeled “Express Mode.” If it’s present and active, your card is enabled for this feature. If not, it’s not supported by that particular card.

In Conclusion:

Apple Pay’s Express Mode is a handy feature offering a backup payment solution when your iPhone is unexpectedly off. However, it’s not a silver bullet. Understand its limitations – primarily the card and transaction type restrictions – to manage expectations. While it adds a layer of convenience, ensuring your phone is adequately charged remains the best way to guarantee seamless Apple Pay transactions.