On the checkout screen, you'll see the reader animation with the message 'Hold card to back of phone'. Position your phone close to your customer and allow them to tap and hold either a card or any NFC type devices (i.e. Apple Pay, Google Pay, Apple Watch, etc.) to the back of the phone.

Paying by "tapping" your phone in 2026 utilizes NFC (Near Field Communication) technology through apps like Apple Wallet (for iPhone) or Google Wallet (for Android). First, you must add a compatible credit or debit card to the app by scanning it or entering the details. To make a payment, ensure your phone's NFC setting is turned on. When you reach a checkout terminal with the "Contactless" symbol (four curved lines), simply wake or unlock your phone and hold the top (iPhone) or the back (Android) within an inch of the reader. You will usually be prompted to verify the transaction using FaceID, TouchID, or your passcode. A blue checkmark or a subtle vibration will confirm the payment was successful. In 2026, "Tap to Pay" is accepted at over 90% of U.S. retailers and is the primary way to pay for transit on subways and buses in cities like New York and London. It is safer than swiping because it uses a unique "token" for each transaction, meaning your actual card number is never shared with the merchant.