Wise Adds eSIM Connectivity and Local QR Payments Across…
By Abdelaziz Fathi
AI summary of the source article
Wise has broadened its travel proposition by adding customizable travel eSIM data plans and cross-border QR payment integrations to its multi-currency account. The eSIM connectivity, provided by Gigs U.K. Ltd across more than 150 destinations, enables users in regions such as the UK, EEA, and US to buy data directly in the app. Concurrently, Wise integrated domestic QR systems, including Brazil's Pix, Singapore's PayNow, Malaysia's DuitNow, and Alipay+ across more than 50 destinations, though US and Canadian users are excluded from the Alipay+ service. The strategy aims to reduce arrival friction and capture local merchant transactions missed by international card networks.
Why it matters
The move expands Wise from a remittance and card service into domestic payment rails and telecom connectivity, enabling users to pay local merchants that do not accept international cards.
Key facts
- Wise integrated travel eSIM data covering over 150 destinations, with connectivity provided by Gigs U.K. Ltd.
- The app now supports domestic QR payment networks, including Pix, PayNow, DuitNow, and Alipay+ across more than 50 destinations.
- The QR payment integration with Alipay+ is not available to Wise users registered in the US or Canada.