PhonePe is working on a new way to send money without needing the internet or even a smartphone. And it’s not just talk—this could empower millions who’ve been left behind in the UPI revolution.
UPI Payments Without Internet?
Imagine being able to send money, scan QR codes, and make UPI payments with a basic phone. That’s exactly what PhonePe is building.
The company recently acquired GSPay technology, which makes offline UPI transactions possible even on feature phones (those classic phones with physical buttons). Using this, PhonePe plans to launch an app that doesn’t need a smartphone or internet connection to work.
Let that sink in digital payments on even the simplest of phones.
Why This Matters (Especially If You or Your Family Use a Feature Phone)
Let’s be honest—not everyone has a smartphone. In fact, around 240 million people in India still use feature phones. Many of them live in rural areas, have limited internet access, or are not comfortable with digital apps.
Up until now, these people had to rely on cash or traditional banking.
But with this move by PhonePe, here’s what’s coming:
- Send money offline using UPI—even without a data pack
- Make QR code payments at shops or to friends
- Receive money from anyone with UPI
- No need for an internet connection or fancy apps
This isn’t just a tech upgrade—it’s a lifeline for people who’ve been excluded from the digital economy.
How Does It Work? Meet GSPay Technology
So, what exactly is this “GSPay” thing?
GSPay is a mobile solution built on the UPI 123PAY platform by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). It allows UPI payments on feature phones through simple options like:
- Missed calls
- IVR (Interactive Voice Response)
- Voice-based commands
It’s already been used by companies like Jio and HMD, but PhonePe is taking it a step further.
They’ve not only acquired the technology—they’re improving it. Soon, they’ll launch an easy-to-use app that’ll work on new feature phones across India.
Real Benefits for Real People
Here’s how this can change lives:
- Farmers in remote areas can sell produce and receive payments instantly
- Seniors who prefer basic phones can send money to family
- Shopkeepers without internet can still accept digital payments
- Daily wage workers can manage money digitally, safely
All without worrying about Wi-Fi, mobile data, or app updates.
This is financial inclusion in action.
What PhonePe Says About the Move
PhonePe is genuinely excited about this. According to them, the financial world has ignored feature phone users for far too long.
By bringing UPI to their fingertips, PhonePe hopes to connect millions of new users to India’s growing digital economy.
They believe that this step could bridge the digital divide especially in rural, semi-urban, and underserved regions.
The Bigger Picture: A Digital Payment Revolution
This isn’t just about one app or one company.
If PhonePe succeeds, it could push other players like Paytm, Google Pay, and BharatPe to launch similar offline solutions. And with over 150 million new feature phones expected in the next 5 years, this space is just heating up.
It could truly bring banking and payments to every corner of the country, no matter the phone in your hand.
FAQs – UPI Payments on Feature Phones
1. Can I use UPI on a phone without internet?
Yes! With the new technology from PhonePe, you’ll soon be able to make UPI payments even without internet access.
2. Do I need a smartphone for this?
Nope. A regular feature phone will do—just the kind with physical buttons.
3. How will I send or receive money?
You’ll be able to use simple methods like missed calls, voice prompts, or QR codes to make and receive payments.
4. Is this safe?
Absolutely. The UPI 123PAY platform is regulated by NPCI and follows strong security measures.
5. Who can benefit from this the most?
People in rural areas, the elderly, and anyone using a basic phone without internet can now enjoy easy, secure payments.
6. When is this launching?
PhonePe hasn’t shared an exact date, but the rollout is expected very soon. The app will be specially designed for newer feature phones.