DBS Bank introduced a Tap-to-Phone feature allowing merchants to turn any Android smartphone into a contactless payment terminal starting June 2, 2026 [1]. Merchants can accept credit and debit card payments directly through the DBS MAX app without the need for separate card terminal devices [2, 1]. The feature supports physical cards as well as NFC wallets like Apple Pay, Google Wallet, and Samsung Wallet [2, 1]. DBS is the first Singapore bank to provide this Tap-to-Phone service [2, 1].

The DBS MAX app integrates contactless card payments with QR code payments via DBS PayLah! and PayNow, enabling merchants to manage all payment channels within one app [2, 1]. The Tap-to-Phone feature helps merchants serve more customers, including tourists without compatible digital wallets and those who prefer card payments over cash [2, 1]. According to PwC data cited by DBS, Singapore’s digital payments market is expected to top US$480 billion by 2030, with credit and debit card transactions accounting for 72% of transaction value in 2024 [2].

Merchants can enable Tap-to-Phone in three steps through the DBS MAX app, which also consolidates payment collection and automates bookkeeping tasks [2, 1]. PayNow QR code transactions carry a 0.25% fee, while non-contact card payments incur a 2.50% transaction fee for merchants [1]. The feature is especially valuable for those operating temporary stalls or wanting to quickly add payment points [1].

Tesy Mathew, Group Head of Cash Product Management at DBS, said, “Businesses can transact in a more efficient and cost-effective manner and scale confidently to capture new opportunities. Retail customers benefit too, as they now have more avenues to use their preferred contactless payments across Singapore.” [2]

Apple launched a Tap to Pay function for iPhones in Singapore in December 2025, allowing contactless payments via partner iOS apps [2]. DBS's Android-based Tap-to-Phone feature complements this by broadening payment options for merchants.

Merchants interested can start enabling Tap-to-Phone through the DBS MAX app immediately, allowing quick setup and expansion of contactless payment acceptance [2].