Walmart backed Indian payments firm PhonePe has launched a new feature on its app to expand digital payment access for users and their trusted contacts.
Called UPI Circle, the feature allows users to create a circle within the app and make payments on behalf of family members, friends, or other trusted individuals.
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A key functionality of this feature is enabling dependents to generate their own UPI ID without requiring a linked bank account.
Under the UPI Circle system, a UPI account holder, referred to as the primary user, can add secondary users to their circle using a UPI ID or QR code.
The primary user retains full control over the circle, with the ability to oversee payment requests, monitor secondary user spending, view detailed payment histories within each circle, and revoke access as needed.
PhonePe claims that the feature is accompanied by enhanced security measures, ensuring an “inclusive” payment experience.
Users can enable the feature from the home screen, invite secondary contacts to join their circle, and upon acceptance, secondary users can initiate payments using the primary user’s account.
PhonePe consumer payments chief business officer Sonika Chandra said: “UPI Circle is a significant step forward in extending the ease and convenience of digital payments for those who are underbanked and those new to the ecosystem.
“Integrating UPI Circle into the PhonePe app, aligns perfectly with our vision of democratising digital payments and making financial services accessible to all. This innovative addition to the UPI stack offering simplifies shared expenses and empowers users to create trusted payment circles that streamline their financial interactions. We’re confident that this will further accelerate the adoption of UPI across India.”
As of March 2025, the platform reports over 600 million registered users and a network of over 40 million merchants.
In February, PhonePe revealed plans to pursue an IPO, with preparations underway for a potential listing on Indian stock exchanges, though a definitive timeline for the IPO has not been established.
