Digital payments are booming in India, with people everywhere using their smartphones to send money, pay bills, and make purchases.
But what about millions who still use feature phones or aren’t comfortable with the internet?
Indian Overseas Bank (IOB) has a solution: UPI 123Pay.
This new system allows users to make UPI payments without a smartphone or internet, using just a missed call and voice commands.
What Is UPI 123Pay?
UPI 123Pay is an initiative by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) designed for feature phone users.
Here’s what makes it simple:
You only need a mobile number linked to your bank account.
A feature phone capable of making calls is all that’s required.
You can send and receive money, check balances, and even view past transactions — all via voice call.
The system works in 12 Indian languages and also allows users to manage their UPI PIN securely.
Since it doesn’t require internet, the risk of cyber fraud is significantly reduced.
How to Use UPI 123Pay
Using UPI 123Pay is straightforward:
Call 08045163666 from your feature phone.
Choose your preferred language.
Link your bank account if you are using it for the first time.
Select options like Send Money or Check Balance.
Enter the mobile number, UPI ID, or bank details of the recipient.
Enter the amount and your UPI PIN.
Confirm the transaction through the call.
No app download or internet connection is required. Everything happens through a simple voice call.
IOB and NPST Join Forces
Indian Overseas Bank has partnered with Network People Services Technologies Limited (NPST), who will implement the system using MissCallPay.
This move will help millions of Indians, especially the 400 million feature phone users, join the digital payment ecosystem.
NPST Chairman Deepak Chand Thakur said, “Voice-based UPI will connect people from all walks of life to the digital economy.”
He also mentioned plans to integrate the system with platforms like Alexa and Google Assistant in the future.
With UPI 123Pay, India takes a big step toward financial inclusion, making digital payments accessible to everyone — no smartphone needed.
