Apple Card May Soon Hit India As iPhone Maker Reportedly Talks With Local Banks, Regulator

This story was originally published on the Benzinga India Portal.

Apple Inc AAPL is reportedly discussing plans with Indian financial institutions and regulators to launch its Apple Card in the country. According to insiders, CEO Tim Cook met with HDFC Bank Chief Sashidhar Jagdishan during his April visit to India.

What Happened? As per a MoneyControl report, Apple has also held talks with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) about the card’s operational details. The regulator insisted that Apple follow the usual procedure for co-branded credit cards without any special privileges.

Sources reveal that Apple plans to introduce its co-branded credit card with HDFC Bank in India. However, the discussions are still in preliminary stages, and no decision has been reached.

Apple currently operates an elite credit card in the U.S., launched in collaboration with Goldman Sachs and Mastercard.

See also: Apple Plans To Add At Least 3 More Flagship Stores In India As Part Of Its Retail Expansion Blueprint

Apple’s focus on India has increased with surging iPhone sales. During Cook’s India visit, Apple launched exclusive retail stores and moved a significant portion of iPhone production to the country. Analysts say India could account for almost a quarter of Apple’s total phone production in the next few years.

Win-Win For Customers? Apple’s decision to consider launching the Apple Card in India could be due to the absence of card payments. The company only accepts Unified Payments Interface (UPI) for most purchases, besides iCloud services.

The Apple Card is integrated with Apple Pay, offers a reward system, and carries no annual fees. In the U.S., the company allows customers to buy Apple products in installments without interest and provides cashback on purchases.

Do not miss: PM Modi 'Fan' Elon Musk Lines Up 2024 Date For India Visit: Stars Aligned for Starlink?