TORONTO — Apple Pay is now available in Canada for people with American Express cards using the latest iPhone models.
The mobile payments app allows users to upload their credit card data into their phone and use it for tap-to-pay systems at supermarkets, corner stores, and big retailers.
The tech company, however, requires the co-operation of the banks and card issuers in order to make the system work, and Canada's large financial institutions have so far been silent on working with Apple.
Only American Express cards issued by Amex Bank of Canada can be activated for use with Apple Pay in Canada.
The contactless payment service is only compatible with Apple devices with built-in wireless technology known as near-field communication, or NFC: the iPhone 6 and 6S models as well as the Apple Watch.
Apple Pay can also be used for in-app purchases.