PhonePe Introduces Biometric Authentication for UPI Payments Up to ₹5,000

Digital payments platform PhonePe has introduced biometric authentication for Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions, enabling users to approve payments of up to ₹5,000 using fingerprint or facial recognition instead of entering a UPI PIN.

The feature aims to streamline payment approvals while maintaining security standards aligned with regulatory guidelines.

How PhonePe’s Biometric UPI Authentication Works

PhonePe’s new feature leverages the smartphone’s built-in security systems to authenticate eligible transactions.

Key Highlights

• Users can approve UPI payments up to ₹5,000 using fingerprint or face recognition.

• Payments above ₹5,000 will continue to require UPI PIN authentication as per regulatory requirements.

• Works through device-level security systems already integrated into smartphones.

PhonePe clarified that the biometric option functions as a device-level two-factor authentication mechanism for eligible transactions.

Fallback Option for Seamless Payments

To ensure uninterrupted payments, the feature includes a fallback mechanism.

If biometric verification fails due to issues such as:

• Poor lighting conditions

• Sensor limitations

• Face recognition mismatch

Users can switch back to the traditional PIN-based authentication method.

Where the Feature Can Be Used

The biometric authentication feature supports multiple everyday use cases, including:

Peer-to-Peer Transfers

Sending money to contacts directly via UPI.

QR Code-Based Merchant Payments

Scanning QR codes at retail outlets and small businesses.

Online Transactions

Making payments on apps and websites.

Bank Balance Checks

Securely checking account balances within the app.

Availability: Android First, iOS Soon

Currently, the feature is available for Android users and supports both fingerprint and facial recognition.

PhonePe confirmed that support for iOS devices will be rolled out in the near future.

PhonePe’s Scale in India

Founded in 2016, PhonePe operates across digital payments, merchant services, and financial distribution.

As of September 30, 2025, the company reported:

• Over 65 crore registered users

• Merchant acceptance network spanning more than 4.7 crore outlets across India

Deep Agrawal, Head of Payments at PhonePe, said the addition aims to simplify the payment process while maintaining security standards.

Why This Matters for UPI Users

India continues to lead globally in real-time digital payments adoption, with UPI transactions reaching record monthly volumes in recent years. Biometric authentication represents the next step in balancing convenience and security.

By removing the need to enter a PIN for smaller transactions, PhonePe is aligning with broader fintech trends focused on frictionless yet secure user experiences.

Conclusion

PhonePe’s biometric authentication feature for UPI payments up to ₹5,000 enhances user convenience without compromising security. By integrating fingerprint and facial recognition with device-level safeguards and fallback PIN options, the platform is simplifying everyday digital payments.

As UPI usage continues to expand across India, such innovations are likely to further accelerate adoption and improve the overall payment experience.