New WhatsApp Beta version shows UPI payment feature

Multiple reports in the past have suggested that WhatsApp is planning to integrated payments service into its platform by end of this year, allowing you to transfer money to friends and family right from the chat window instantly. And now it seems like WhatsApp users in India may not have to wait too long to get the feature.

The WhatsApp UPI integration has been spotted in the beta version of the Android platform. According to WABetaInfo, the WhatsApp beta version 2.17.295 has a UPI payment preview page, though it's hidden, and you'll not be able to see it just yet.

The payment feature is found on a new section called "WhatsApp Payments" and reads 'Immediate bank to bank transfer with UPI'. You'll also have to agree to WhatsApp Payment and Banks's terms and privacy policy, before using it.

Several popular messaging platform such as WeChat and Hike Messenger already support payment services. Also post demonetization, usage of mobile payment apps such as Paytm, MobiKwik, Freecharge and others have seen exponential growth in user base and number of transactions.

However, given that WhatsApp has an active user base of over 200 million in India, the popular messaging platform should boost digital payments further in the country. 

Via