Apple Announces 'ApplePay' Mobile Payment Solution, Enabled at Over 220,000 U.S. Merchants [iOS Blog]

At its special media event today, Apple announced its new ApplePay payment solution for the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus, which utilizes the Touch ID fingerprint sensor, a new "Secure Element" functionality, and the built-in NFC antenna in conjunction with a credit card stored on iTunes.

To make a payment, users hold the iPhone 6 or iPhone 6 Plus to a receiver while holding the Touch ID home button. Apple states that card numbers will only be stored or shared in Secure Element, and if an iPhone is ever lost or stolen, Find my iPhone can suspend all payments. Apple is also touting privacy, stating that it does not record what users bought or how much they paid. Cashiers also do not see a name, credit card number, or security code.

ApplePay will first launch in the United States next month as an update to iOS 8 and will be compatible American Express, Mastercard, and Visa credit and debit cards, with Citi, Bank of American, Capital One, Wells Fargo, and Chase also listed as partners. Apple is also stating that the program will work with over 220,000 U.S. merchants, including Walgreens, Duane Reade, Macy's, Nike Bloomingdales, Staples, Subway, and McDonalds more. Apple will also launch a new ApplePay API for developers to integrate the system into their apps.