How to Use PhonePe UPI 123Pay on Feature Phones Without Internet: Step-by-Step Guide

PhonePe has expanded India's digital payment ecosystem with the launch of UPI 123Pay for feature phones, allowing users to make UPI transactions without an active internet connection. The service is designed to help millions of users who rely on basic handsets, particularly in areas with limited internet connectivity.

UPI 123Pay comes pre-installed on select feature phones from brands including Nokia, HMD, Lava and Itel. Using an SMS-based technology platform, users can send money, check account balances and make merchant payments, bringing essential digital payment services to a wider audience.

How to Set Up PhonePe UPI 123Pay

Setting up UPI 123Pay on a compatible feature phone is relatively straightforward. Follow these steps:

1. Open the pre-installed PhonePe UPI 123Pay app on your feature phone.
2. Accept the terms and conditions displayed on the screen.
3. Select your bank from the available list.
4. Enter the last six digits of your debit card when prompted.
5. Enter your debit card expiry date.
6. Follow the instructions to create your UPI PIN.
7. Once the PIN is successfully created, your offline UPI profile will be activated.

How to Send Money Without Internet

Once UPI 123Pay is set up, users can make payments directly from their feature phones without requiring an active internet connection.

1. Open the UPI 123Pay application.
2. Choose the option to send money.
3. Enter the recipient's mobile number or UPI ID.
4. Enter the amount you want to transfer.
5. Confirm the transaction using your UPI PIN.

Feature phones equipped with cameras can also be used to scan merchant QR codes and make payments.

Users can additionally check their bank account balance and access basic transaction information through the service.

What Else Can PhonePe UPI 123Pay Do?

PhonePe plans to expand UPI 123Pay with mobile recharges and utility bill payments. The company also plans to introduce Aadhaar-based onboarding, allowing users without an active debit card to register for the service.

The platform also features a voice-based AI assistant designed to help first-time users understand UPI and navigate the setup process. It supports English and 12 Indian languages, making the service more accessible across different regions.

Overall, UPI 123Pay aims to make digital payments accessible to feature phone users, particularly those who may not have reliable internet connectivity or access to smartphones.