How to Make UPI Payments Using a Simple Feature Phone: A Step-by-Step Guide

Technology has come a long way from the days of dial-up networking to today’s fast fiber-optic Internet connections, and so have the phones we use. Despite the appeal of advanced smartphones from brands like Apple and Samsung, many people are now consciously turning to feature phones, often referred to as “dumb phones.” Durability, longer battery life, affordability and the idea of ​​digital detox are encouraging users to buy feature phones. One of the biggest reasons why people love smartphones is the convenience they offer, especially when it comes to things like bill payments and money transfers. However, even feature phones now support the popular Unified Payments Interface (UPI), allowing virtually every user with a mobile phone and a bank account to make digital payments.

The UPI 123Pay service launched by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) provides UPI transactions to users who do not have access to smartphones but have a bank account linked to their mobile number. Here’s how to make UPI payments using feature phones.

How to use UPI 123Pay to make UPI payments through feature phones

1. Dial the UPI 123Pay IVR number 08045163666 using your feature phone to connect to the UPI payment system.
2. Listen to instructions and choose your language
3. Follow the voice instructions to link your bank account to your mobile number (for first-time users).
4. Select a transaction type, such as checking account balance, sending money, or requesting a payment.
5. Select a remittance option.
6. Enter the recipient’s mobile number, UPI ID or bank account number and IFSC code.
7. Enter the payment amount.
8. Enter your UPI Pin to authorize and complete the transaction.
9. Wait for confirmation, then hang up.

To avail the UPI 123Pay service, the user’s mobile number must be linked to their bank account. While registering, users need to create a 4 to 6-digit UPI PIN, which must be entered for every transaction. If you already have a UPI PIN, you can continue to use it. The service does not require an internet connection and works on most feature phones via regular voice calls.

How to make UPI payments through apps and voice-based technology

NPCI also allows users to make UPI payments using voice-based technology by simply dialing the IVR number. You can follow the steps below to make UPI payments using the sound-based technology available on some speaker devices.

1. Select the “Pay Merchant” option and then hold your phone close to the merchant’s speaker device.
2. Wait for the distinctive tone and press the # key.
3. Enter the amount you want to pay and enter the UPI PIN to complete the payment.
4. Wait for a confirmation sound from the speaker.

Some feature phone manufacturers offer in-built apps with UPI functionality, allowing users to perform most UPI transactions similar to smartphone apps. It supports money transfers, balance checks, and bill payments, but scan and pay options are often unavailable because the devices don’t have cameras.