Apple Cash may soon offer a “virtual card number” in iOS 17.4 beta that can be used to make online purchases where Apple Pay isn’t available. Reddit post noted by 9-5Mac. The new feature promises a new security code for each transaction, which can be accessed in Safari’s AutoFill app.
In the beta version, Apple Cash users are offered to “set up a virtual card number”. Once done, you can view the card through the settings menu, including its number, expiration date, and security code. The number is separate from the one used for Apple Pay transactions and can be changed accordingly 9-5Mac.
As a reminder, Apple Cash is similar to a debit card, allowing you to send and receive money through Apple Pay and the Messages app. Funds can be stored and linked to a bank account or other debit card to transfer money back and forth. Apple Pay cashback earnings are paid out as Apple Cash and the funds can be used to pay off Apple Pay balances.
Apple Cash used to work on the Discover Network, but has switched to Apple Visa back in 2022. Until now, Apple Cash didn’t have a card number, so using it online was a non-starter. Apple says 15 percent of retailers still don’t accept Apple Pay — so with a virtual card number, you can pay with Apple Cash at those sites. This feature is still in beta in iOS 17.4, which is expected to arrive in March.
