WhatsApp Launches Bill Payment Feature in India
Meta-owned WhatsApp has rolled out its bill payment feature in India, enabling users to pay utility bills directly within the app and compete with Google Pay and Paytm.
WhatsApp, owned by Meta, has launched its bill payment feature in India, allowing users to find, manage, and pay utility bills directly within the messaging application. This move positions WhatsApp to compete with established players like Google Pay and Paytm in the Indian fintech market.
The service utilizes the Bharat Connect (BBPS) network, providing access to over 22,000 billers across 30 categories, including electricity, gas, and insurance. Arun Srinivas, Meta India's Country Head, stated that the feature simplifies a common household task, leveraging WhatsApp's extensive user base in the country.
Users can make secure payments without leaving the WhatsApp app. The functionality is accessed by tapping the rupee symbol (₹) on the home screen, followed by selecting the biller, entering account details, and completing the transaction via UPI, debit card, or credit card. Past and upcoming bills are also visible.
The launch aligns with regulatory requirements, as India's central bank mandated that credit card bill payments through third-party apps must be routed via the BBPS network starting July 1, 2024. WhatsApp is operating as an agent institution under this framework.
WhatsApp's significant advantage in India stems from its estimated 500 million users, its largest market globally. While a late entrant to the bill payment space, its vast user base offers a competitive edge. This feature follows WhatsApp's earlier introduction of browser calling capabilities in India.