With the rise of UPI apps such as Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm, and more, a growing number of individuals have chosen to forgo cash altogether. These apps have made digital payments more convenient and accessible, making them a popular choice over traditional cash payments.
Today, it is rare to find a merchant who does not accept UPI payments, further fueling their widespread adoption. The ease of use and instant transaction processing of UPI apps have made them a preferred choice for both consumers and merchants.
Although many of us have adopted the use of smartphones, weak internet connections can still be a challenge. When internet connection is poor, it can impede a user’s ability to make UPI payments. However, an alternative offline option is available for making UPI payments without Internet.
Transferring money has become increasingly convenient in recent years with the advent of internet-enabled smartphones. However, many people, particularly those with feature phones or keypad phones, are unable to take advantage of these online transfer payments.
However, a new technology called UPI 123Pay allows even individuals with feature phones to easily pay via call without the need for internet access.
What is UPI 123Pay?
UPI 123Pay, a new technology that enables individuals to make financial transactions via phone call, was launched by the Reserve Bank of India and National Payment Corporation of India on March 9th, 2022.
This system allows users to make payments without the need for internet access, making it accessible to those who possess feature phones or keypad phones.
It is a revolutionary technology that enables people to make financial transactions without the need for the internet or smartphone.
It is an advanced system that enables customers to make payments through a simple phone call.
This technology is designed to make financial transactions more accessible to people who do not have internet access or who have limited access to technology.
The UPI 123Pay service allows users to easily and securely transfer money to friends, family, and businesses using a feature phone. Additionally, this service can be used for mobile recharges and paying bills. The National Payments Corporation of India (NCPI) has given its approval for this service to be implemented.
With UPI 123Pay, individuals can take advantage of various money transfer options directly from their feature phone.
What are the features of UPI 123Pay?
UPI 123Pay is a service that provides various benefits to feature phone users, including:
- UPI 123Pay is a service that does not require a smartphone and can be accessed through any feature phone.
- Allows for easy money transfer to friends and family, mobile recharges and bill payments
- Users can view bank account information such as balance and transaction history
- The process is simple, consisting of three steps: Call, Select, and Pay.
- Security is emphasized with the ability for users to set a UPI PIN after linking their bank account.
How to use UPI 123Pay and pay via the call?
UPI 123Pay is a set of solutions designed for non-smartphone users to access UPI payments without the internet.
This means that you can make UPI transactions without having to own a smartphone, as UPI 123Pay allows you to use UPI through a feature phone.
To start a transaction, users can dial 080 4516 3666, 080 4516 3581, or 6366 200 200 and select their preferred language via the IVR.
IDFC First Bank, City Union Bank, and NSDL Payments Bank have implemented this solution and are offering it to their customers.
1. Missed Call
UPI 123Pay offers a missed call payment option for users.
To use this feature, customers simply need to dial a missed call on the number provided by the shop and wait for an incoming call.
The user can then confirm the transaction by entering their bank account number and the account holder’s name, the payment amount and their UPI PIN, which ensures a safe transaction.
2. Interactive Voice Response (IVR)
You can pay via call by phone using the following method.
- Dial either 080 4516 3666 or 080 4516 3581 from your feature phone.
- Select your preferred language.
- Press ‘1’ to initiate a money transfer.
- Choose the bank linked to your UPI account by speaking the name of the bank.
- Press ‘1’ to confirm the bank details.
- Press ‘1’ to send money using your mobile number.
- Enter the recipient’s mobile number.
- Confirm the details and enter the amount you want to transfer.
- Enter your UPI PIN to complete the transaction.
3. UPI 123Pay App
With this option, a feature phone will have the capability to install an app which allows the user to send money to any bank account holder, pay bills and recharge mobile phones, similar to the functionalities available on Paytm and Google.
This app will bring the convenience of those services to feature phones.
Things to keep in mind When using UPI 123Pay
When using UPI 123Pay, it is important to keep the following in mind:
- Verify the recipient’s UPI ID before making a payment to ensure that you are sending money to the correct person.
- Keep your UPI PIN secure and never share it with anyone.
- Verify transaction details through SMS and contact your bank if there are any discrepancies.
- Keep your mobile device secure and do not give it to anyone you do not trust, as it can be used to make payments if linked to your bank account.
- Do not share sensitive information such as your card number and CVV with anyone.
Offline UPI Payment using USSD Method
It is now possible for non-Internet and non-smartphone users to perform UPI transactions through the *99# USSD service.
This service was launched by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) in November 2021, four years prior to the launch of the UPI network.
Initially, the reach of the ‘*99#’ service was limited, with only two telecom service providers (TSPs) – BSNL and MTNL – offering it.
However, in August 2016, NPCI integrated the two digital payment methods (UPI and *99#) to allow users to send and receive money using a UPI ID or payment address.
This integration expanded the reach of the service and made it more accessible to a wider range of users.
It is important to note that there is no charge for transactions made through this method, and users should check with their TSP for more information.
Requirements For Making UPI Payment Without Internet
- Keep in mind that the mobile number provided must be connected to UPI.
- The bank account that the money is being transferred from should also be linked to the same mobile number.
- Each transaction made through this method will is completely free of charge.
How to make a UPI payment using USSD?
To start the process of making online payments without an internet connection, ensure that your phone number is registered with your bank account and you have completed the registration process for UPI.
With these steps done, you will be able to make UPI payments offline.
- Start by accessing the dialer on your phone and enter the code *99#, then press call.
- From the menu, select the option to send money by typing 1.
- Next, you will be given various options for sending money to the recipient, such as their mobile number, Payment address, Saved beneficiary, IFSC, and Account No.
- Input the required information, including the amount you wish to send.
- Confirm the transaction by entering your UPI PIN and press send. You can then choose to save the recipient for future use or exit.
- Your UPI transaction will be completed without internet connectivity.
Final Thoughts
UPI 123Pay, which aims to encourage digital payments among users of feature phones. This service allows individuals to make payments simply by making a phone call, making it a convenient option for those without access to a smartphone or internet.
