Apple Cash may soon offer a “virtual card number” in the iOS 17.4 beta that could be used to make online purchases where Apple Pay is not available, according to a Reddit post spotted by 9to5Mac. The new feature promises a new security code for each transaction and the number is accessible in Safari's autofill for easy use.
In the beta, Apple Cash users are prompted to “set up a virtual card number.” Once done, you can view it through the settings menu, including card number, expiration date and security code. The number is separate from the one used for Apple Pay transactions and can be changed, depending on 9to5Mac.
As a reminder, Apple Cash is like a debit card, allowing you to send and receive money through Apple Pay and the Message app. Funds can be stored and linked to a bank account or other debit card to transfer money back and forth. Apple Pay cashback earnings are refunded as Apple Cash, and the funds can be used to pay off Apple Pay balances.
Apple Cash was once operated on Discover Network, but Apple switched to Visa back in 2022. However, until now Apple Cash did not have a card number, so using it online was not a solution. Apple says 15% of retailers still don't accept Apple Pay. So, with the virtual card number, you may be able to pay with Apple Cash on these sites. The feature is still in beta on iOS 17.4, which is expected to arrive in March.
