Apple continues to enhance the user experience for iPhone owners in the United Kingdom, with a groundbreaking feature introduced in the beta version of iOS 17.1. Now, users in the UK can seamlessly view their bank account balances, deposits, and payment histories directly within Apple’s Wallet app. This exciting integration streamlines financial management and provides quick access to crucial banking information. Read on to discover how to make the most of this innovative feature.
A New Level of Convenience: While Apple’s Wallet app has long been a hub for Apple Pay transactions, this latest integration takes it a step further. iPhone users can now gain valuable insights into their financial health, thanks to the ability to view essential account details. Here’s what you can access:
- Current Account Balance: Get a real-time snapshot of your bank account balance, allowing you to stay updated on your financial standing.
- Transaction History: Review a comprehensive record of your deposits and payments, making it easy to track your financial activity.
- Credit Card Details: If you have a credit card, you can also monitor your remaining credit, empowering you to manage your finances more effectively.
Bank Support and Compatibility: To enable this feature, your bank must support the Open Banking API integrated by Apple. Currently, several leading UK banks are on board, including Barclays, Monzo, Startling, HSBC, Lloyds, and RBS. As iOS 17.1 makes its way to the public, more banks are expected to join the roster.
How to Enable Account Viewing: Here’s a step-by-step guide to securely authorize the integration through the Wallet app:
- Open Wallet: Launch the Wallet app on your iPhone.
- Select Your Card: Tap a card from one of the supporting banks.
- Get Started: Locate and tap “Get Started” under “See Balances and Full Transaction History for This Account.”
- Continue: Tap “Continue” to initiate the connection between your account and Wallet.
- Authorization: Review the account details that Wallet will access and tap “Continue.”
- Bank App Confirmation: You will be redirected to your bank’s app, where you’ll need to enter your iPhone’s passcode or use Face ID to grant Wallet permission to access the specified account details.
After completing these steps, return to the Wallet app, where you’ll find your account balance prominently displayed below the bank card, along with your transaction history. For credit cards, the remaining balance and credit limit are also accessible with a simple tap.
Annual Transaction Histories: Apple Wallet goes the extra mile by keeping annual transaction histories for linked accounts. You can access these records for each account in Settings -> Wallet & Apple Pay, making it easy to review transactions by year.
UK-Exclusive Innovation: While Apple users in the UK await access to services like Apple Cash or Apple Card, the Wallet app’s support for the Open Banking standard offers a unique and valuable financial feature. Notably, Open Banking is specific to the UK, with no equivalent available in the United States at present.
