Here's why Walmart still doesn't support Apple Pay

Ten years after Apple Pay's launch, Walmart still refuses to accept any form of NFC payment in its U.S. stores. This includes not just Apple Pay, but also Google Pay, Samsung Pay, and contactless credit/debit cards. While competitors like Kroger and Home Depot have adopted the technology, Walmart has doubled down on its own solutions.

The Walmart Pay Ecosystem

At the core of Walmart's resistance is Walmart Pay, its QR code-based payment system launched in 2017. Unlike NFC payments that work with a simple tap, Walmart Pay requires users to:

1. Open the Walmart app
2. Activate the camera
3. Scan a QR code at checkout
4. Authenticate the payment

For Walmart+ subscribers, the Scan & Go system adds another layer of proprietary technology. Customers scan items while shopping and bypass traditional checkout, but still can't use Apple Pay during the payment step.

The Data Factor

Industry analysts point to data collection as Walmart's primary motivation. When customers use Walmart Pay or Scan & Go:

• Every purchase links directly to their Walmart account
• Item-level purchase data builds detailed consumer profiles
• Data fuels targeted advertising and personalized marketing

By contrast, Apple Pay transactions provide retailers only with necessary payment information, withholding specific purchase details and customer identities.

Debunking the Fee Myth

Contrary to popular belief, Apple Pay doesn't charge retailers additional fees. Businesses pay standard card processing rates whether customers use contactless payments, physical cards, or manual entry. The cost to upgrade payment terminals—which Walmart has already done—represents the only infrastructure investment required.

Corporate Stance

In a recent statement, Walmart defended its position: "We do not accept NFC and instead have implemented convenient solutions like Walmart Pay that provide touchless payments on any smartphone. Our investments in Scan & Go deliver truly contactless shopping experiences for Walmart+ members."

The Customer Impact

This policy comes at a significant convenience cost:

• Shoppers can't use their preferred payment method
• Transactions take longer than NFC tap-to-pay
• Visitors without the Walmart app must use physical cards

Social media shows mounting frustration, with many customers reporting they avoid Walmart specifically due to the Apple Pay limitation. As other retail holdouts adopt NFC payments, Walmart appears increasingly isolated in its stance—prioritizing data control over customer convenience with no indication of policy change.

Does Walmart's payment policy affect where you shop? Share your experience in the comments.