As its name suggests, Apple Pay is a payment feature within the Wallet app on your iOS device that lets you add credit, debit, and rewards cards to use and make purchases at participating retailers. It works with many major credit and debit cards from top banks. It's also a great way to keep track of your most recent transactions. In iOS 11, you'll soon be able to send and receive money directly through iMessage with Apple Pay, similarly to Venmo and Square Cash.

How does it work?

Apple Pay is a safe, quick, and convenient way to store up to eight credit or debit cards to pay for goods using your iPhone 5 and up. It works by using wireless Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, which allows two devices — like your smartphone and a payment terminal — to share information by tapping them together or waving one of the devices within proximity of the other. While it doesn't work with Android smartphones or tablets, it can also be used on newer iPads and the Apple Watch.

Does it cost money?

Most banks and credit card companies within the United States don't charge a fee for using Apple Pay, but additional message and data charges may apply to your cell phone bill. Currently, there's no way to use Apple Pay for subscription services, recurring charges, and bills. But, you can make payments from within apps or on websites using the Safari internet browser.

How to set up Apple Pay:

Here's how you set it up on an iPhone and use it at the store.

1. Open the Wallet app

2. Tap Add Credit or Debit Card or the + button at the top right of your iPhone's screen

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3. Sign into your iCloud account

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4. Tap the next button at the top right

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5. Either take a photo of your card, or enter the card number manually

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6. Enter the expiration date and the CVV number for your card

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7. Wait for the system to add your card

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8. Verify your account with an email or text message

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9. Go spend your hard-earned cash with your iPhone

How to use Apple Pay:

It's important to note that Apple Pay only works in select stores. Look for these symbols at the payment terminal.

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1. To switch cards on your iPhone, hold your device near the payment terminal without resting your finger on Touch ID. When your default card appears, tap it, then tap the one that you want to use. On the Apple Watch, double-click the side button before holding it near the reader and swipe left or right to change cards.

2. After selecting your card, place your thumb or finger on your iPhone's Touch ID scanner and hold your iPhone within an inch of the contactless reader until you see "Done" and a check mark on the display. If you're using your Apple Watch, double-click the side button and hold the watch near the reader until you see the word "Done" and a check mark.

3. If you need to choose Credit or Debit on the terminal, select Credit.

4. If you need to provide the last four digits of your card, use the Device Account Number instead. To find this, open the Wallet app, tap your card, then tap "I" to see the Device Account Number.

5. You may need to sign a receipt or enter your PIN.

If you ever want to delete a card from your device, all you need to do on your iPhone is go to Settings > Wallet & Apple Pay, tap the card that you want to remove, then tap Remove Card.

In the event you lose your iPhone, go to icloud.com/find or use the Find My iPhone app to either suspend or remove your cards from your device. Just click Settings, choose your device, and click Remove All. You can also call your bank or credit card company to suspend or remove your cards from Apple Pay.

More from Best Products:

Take Advantage of Some More iPhone Tips and Tricks

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From: BestProducts