Gupshup.io, a conversational engagement platform, has introduced UPI payments for feature phone users through its native app called GSPay. Unlike the conventional UPI system that relies on internet connectivity, Gupshup.io utilizes SMS to provide a seamless payment experience on feature phones.
To develop this feature, Gupshup.io leverages UPI 123 Pay, introduced by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) last year, which enables payments for feature phone users.
In addition, feature phone users will be able to make payments by scanning QR codes, according to a statement from Gupshup.
Previously, solutions based on UPI 123 Pay used either missed calls or IVR-based systems for making payments.
With the GSPay app, even new users can register for UPI, link their bank accounts, and set up a UPI PIN, all within the embedded app on their phones, the company explained.
The app offers the option to make payments using either the mobile number or UPI ID, completing the transaction in a simple two-step process. Users enter the mobile number or UPI ID of the payee, the amount, and the UPI PIN. Once confirmed, the payment is completed, and the user receives a notification.
Currently, the GSPay app is available in 12 Indian languages, including English, Hindi, Marathi, Odia, and Assamese, among others. Gupshup recently partnered with Nokia (HMD Global) to enable GSPay on select Nokia feature phones.
Last year, the RBI launched UPI on feature phones, known as UPI123Pay, to allow feature phone users to conduct UPI transactions without an internet connection.
Digital payments in India have experienced significant growth in recent years, largely due to UPI. However, UPI transaction volumes slightly decreased from INR 14.10 lakh crore in March to INR 14.07 lakh crore in April 2023, following several months of steady growth.
According to NPCI data, PhonePe, Google Pay, and Paytm accounted for a 94% market share in the number of UPI transactions processed in March 2023.
