Using Apple Pay on a Mac Without Touch ID

This article provides a complete guide on how to use Apple Pay in the Safari web browser on a Mac that does not have a Touch ID sensor. By utilizing Apple's Continuity features, you can initiate a purchase on your computer and securely authorize the transaction using Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode on a nearby iPhone or Apple Watch. Below, you will find the necessary device requirements, initial setup steps, and the exact process to complete your checkout seamlessly.

Device Setup and Prerequisites

Before you can confirm Mac payments on your mobile device, your devices must be properly configured to communicate with each other. Ensure the following requirements are met:

  1. Same Apple ID: Your Mac and your iPhone or Apple Watch must be signed in to iCloud using the exact same Apple ID, and that account must have two-factor authentication enabled.
  2. Enable Bluetooth and Wi-Fi: Both your Mac and your confirming device must have Bluetooth and Wi-Fi turned on. They do not need to be on the same Wi-Fi network, just within Bluetooth range (about 30 feet or 10 meters).
  3. Turn on Handoff:
    • On Mac: Go to System Settings (or System Preferences) > General > AirDrop & Handoff, and turn on "Allow Handoff between this Mac and your iCloud devices."
    • On iPhone: Go to Settings > General > AirPlay & Handoff, and turn on "Handoff."
  4. Allow Payments on Mac: Open the Settings app on your iPhone, tap "Wallet & Apple Pay," and toggle on "Allow Payments on Mac" at the bottom of the screen.

Starting the Checkout in Safari

  1. Open the Safari browser on your Mac and navigate to the checkout page of the store you are purchasing from.
  2. Click the Apple Pay button. (Note: Apple Pay on the web is only available in Safari and will not work in third-party browsers on a Mac without Touch ID).
  3. A payment sheet will drop down on your Mac screen. Here, you can select your preferred credit or debit card, and verify or update your billing address, shipping address, and contact information.
  4. Once your details are correct, your Mac will prompt you to confirm the payment on your nearby iPhone or Apple Watch.

Confirming the Payment with an iPhone

When the Mac displays the "Confirm on iPhone" prompt, your iPhone screen will automatically wake up and display the Apple Pay payment sheet.

  • iPhone with Face ID: Double-click the side button on the right edge of your iPhone, then glance at your screen to authenticate with Face ID, or enter your passcode.
  • iPhone with Touch ID: Rest your registered finger on the Home button to authenticate.

Once you see the "Done" message and a checkmark on both your iPhone and Mac screens, the transaction is complete.

Confirming the Payment with an Apple Watch

If you are wearing an unlocked Apple Watch that is paired with your iPhone, you can use it to authorize the transaction instead.

  1. When the Mac prompts you to confirm the payment, you will feel a gentle tap on your wrist and see the payment notification on your Apple Watch screen.
  2. Double-click the side button (located directly below the Digital Crown, not the Digital Crown itself).

Your Apple Watch will chime and show a checkmark, and the Safari window on your Mac will update to confirm that your order has been placed.