Biometric UPI Payments Coming Soon: PhonePe, Paytm, GPay May Allow Face ID or Fingerprint Instead of PIN
PhonePe, Paytm, and GPay users may soon use biometrics like Face ID or fingerprints for UPI payments. PIN entry could become optional.
NPCI plans to roll out biometric UPI payments for apps like PhonePe, Paytm, and GPay, simplifying verification with face or fingerprint scans.
In a major step toward simplifying digital transactions, users of popular UPI apps such as PhonePe, Paytm, Google Pay, and BHIM may soon be able to verify UPI payments using biometrics—including facial recognition or fingerprint scans—instead of entering a traditional PIN.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) is actively working on integrating biometric authentication into the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) system. The goal is to enhance user convenience while maintaining robust security for transactions.
Biometric UPI: What to Expect
The biometric authentication system will leverage the smartphone’s built-in features, such as face unlock or fingerprint sensors, already widely used to access apps and unlock devices. Once implemented, this will be available as an optional feature, allowing users to switch between PIN-based and biometric verification as per their preference.
This innovation is expected to benefit elderly users and individuals in rural areas, who often face difficulties typing PINs on digital interfaces.
Current UPI Verification
At present, UPI platforms require users to enter a 4- or 6-digit PIN for every transaction. While this method is secure, the upcoming biometric feature aims to streamline the payment experience without compromising safety.
New UPI Rules from August 1
Alongside this biometric development, the NPCI is also introducing several new UPI usage rules, effective from August 1, 2025, aimed at improving system efficiency and reducing server congestion:
1. Bank Account Access Limit
Users can now retrieve details of bank accounts linked to their mobile number only 25 times per day.
2. Auto-Debit Transactions Time Restrictions
Scheduled payments like EMIs, SIPs, and subscriptions will be processed only during low-traffic periods:
Before 10 AM
Between 1 PM and 5 PM
After 9:30 PM
3. Limit on Transaction Status Checks
For pending payments, users can refresh the status only three times, with a mandatory 90-second gap between each attempt.
4. Daily Cap on Balance Checks
Each UPI app will now allow only 50 balance inquiries per day, aimed at limiting unnecessary API loads and ensuring smoother operation.
These upcoming features and rules are part of NPCI’s broader strategy to enhance digital payment security, improve server efficiency, and offer greater ease of use, particularly as UPI continues to expand across all demographics in India.
