PhonePe’s New AI Tool Lets Users Make Payments Using Simple Voice Commands

Digital payments platform PhonePe has introduced an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered natural language search feature on its app, allowing users to complete transactions and access services through voice or text commands.

The feature has been developed using capabilities from **Microsoft’s Foundry platform and is designed to replace conventional menu-based navigation with intent-based routing.

What Is PhonePe’s AI-Powered Natural Language Search?

Instead of manually navigating through multiple tabs, users can type or speak commands such as “Pay Hemanth 20 rupees,” “Recharge FASTag,” or “Gold price,” and the app directs them to the relevant transaction page or information section.

According to the company, the system interprets user intent — whether making a payment, completing a purchase, or seeking help — and guides them accordingly.

How It Changes the Payment Experience

Traditionally, users needed to:

• Open specific tabs

• Select transaction categories

• Enter recipient details manually

With the new AI-based system, users can simply:

• Speak a command via voice input

• Type a natural sentence in the search bar

The app then intelligently routes them to the correct action page.

Powered by Microsoft Foundry and Hybrid AI Architecture

The feature uses a hybrid model combining on-device and cloud-based inferencing. PhonePe said personal or transactional data remains within its environment, with an emphasis on privacy and security safeguards.

By leveraging Microsoft’s Foundry platform, the company integrates advanced AI capabilities while maintaining control over sensitive financial data. This hybrid setup ensures:

• Faster response times

• Secure data processing

• Improved intent recognition accuracy

Rollout Details and Where to Access It

The rollout will take place in phases across India. Users can access the feature via the app’s:

• Global search bar

• Help center

• Transaction history tab

As the feature expands nationwide, more users will gradually gain access in upcoming updates.

Why This Matters for India’s Digital Payments Ecosystem

India remains one of the world’s fastest-growing digital payments markets, driven by UPI adoption across urban and semi-urban areas.

For personal finance users, the move reflects a broader trend of digital platforms integrating AI tools to reduce friction in routine financial tasks. Voice-led and text-based commands may lower barriers for first-time or less tech-savvy users, particularly in a market where digital payments have expanded rapidly across urban and semi-urban segments.

Benefits for Users

• Faster transactions

• Reduced navigation complexity

• Improved accessibility

• Lower learning curve for new users

• Seamless multitasking within the app

About PhonePe

Founded in 2016, PhonePe operates across:

• Consumer payments

• Merchant payments

• Insurance distribution

• Lending services

• Investment platforms such as Share.Market

As of September 2025, the company reported over 65 crore registered users and a merchant network of more than 4.7 crore acceptance points.

With this AI-driven update, PhonePe strengthens its position in India’s competitive fintech ecosystem by blending artificial intelligence with everyday financial transactions.