Amazon Pay Enables Biometric Authentication for UPI Payments in India

Amazon Pay has introduced biometric authentication for Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions in India, as per news reports.  

The feature allows users to approve payments using a fingerprint or facial scan instead of entering a UPI PIN, according to details shared by the company on Wednesday. 

Applicable to Transactions up to ₹5,000 

The biometric authentication facility can be used for UPI payments of up to ₹5,000. Transactions above this limit will continue to require PIN-based approval.  

The company said the feature is aimed at smaller-value transactions, which form a large part of day-to-day UPI usage. 

Early Usage Trends 

Initial data shared by Amazon Pay indicates high adoption among eligible users. More than 90% of customers have chosen biometric authentication for peer-to-peer UPI transactions where the option is available.  

The company said this brings out user preference for reduced steps during payment authorisation. 

Changes to the Payment Flow 

With biometric authentication enabled, users can complete payments without manually entering a PIN. Amazon Pay stated that this reduces the number of steps involved and shortens transaction time, particularly for frequent payments made through the app. 

Security Linked to the User’s Device 

The company said biometric authentication is tied to the customer’s device and cannot be shared. This means payment approval relies on device-level security features rather than knowledge-based credentials such as PINs. Existing UPI safeguards remain in place for higher-value transactions. 

Context within the UPI Ecosystem 

UPI continues to handle a large volume of small-value transactions across India. Payment service providers have been introducing changes focused on ease of use while keeping the underlying system unchanged. Biometric authentication relies on hardware already present in most smartphones. 

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Conclusion 

Amazon Pay’s biometric authentication adds an alternative approval method for UPI payments up to ₹5,000. The feature is currently limited to eligible devices and transactions, with PIN-based verification remaining mandatory for higher amounts. 

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