UPI, or Unified Payments Interface, has completely changed the way people in India send and receive money. From paying at local shops to splitting a bill with friends or making online purchases, UPI makes it all quick and easy. With just a mobile number or UPI ID, anyone can transfer money instantly, no need to carry cash or remember account details.
Today, there are several UPI apps that offer secure payments, cashback offers, and smooth user experiences. In this blog, we’ll look at some of the best UPI apps in India, their key features, and what makes each of them stand out.
UPI Apps and Their Role
What Are UPI Apps?
UPI apps are mobile applications that enable instant money transfers through the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) system. They allow seamless transactions directly from a bank account, removing the need for physical cash or separate digital wallets.
With UPI payment apps, users can:
- Transfer money instantly between different bank accounts.
- Make quick payments by scanning QR codes.
- Pay bills and recharge mobile numbers within seconds.
- Shop online and complete transactions safely and efficiently.
In short, UPI apps simplify digital payments by bringing convenience, speed, and security together in one place.
Advantages of UPI Apps
UPI apps have made digital payments easier and faster for everyone. They offer several benefits that make money transfers, bill payments, and everyday transactions more convenient and secure.
- Instant Transfers: Money can be sent or received within seconds, anytime and anywhere.
- No Wallet Required: Transactions happen directly from the linked bank account, removing the need for separate wallets.
- 24×7 Availability: Payments can be made round the clock, even on weekends and bank holidays.
- Secure Transactions: UPI uses multi-level authentication, ensuring safe and verified payments.
- Ease of Use: Only a mobile number, UPI ID, or QR code is needed to make payments.
- Wide Acceptance: Accepted by small merchants, online stores, and service providers across India.
- Low or No Charges: Most UPI transactions are free, making them affordable for everyone.
- Supports Multiple Banks: One UPI app can handle several bank accounts at once.
Top 10 UPI Apps in India (2025)
1. PhonePe – India’s Most Popular UPI App
PhonePe is one of the best and most widely used UPI apps in India. It allows instant money transfers, bill payments, mobile recharges, and insurance or investment options all in one place. The app supports multiple Indian languages and is accepted by millions of merchants across the country. PhonePe is known for its speed, reliability, and strong data protection, making it a trusted UPI payment app for both personal and business use.
Key Features:
- Instant money transfer between bank accounts
- QR code and contact-based payments
- Insurance, investment, and gold purchase options
- Available in multiple Indian languages
2. Google Pay – Simple, Secure, and Rewarding
Google Pay (GPay) stands out for its clean design, fast transactions, and strong Google-level security. It enables easy money transfers, bill payments, and online purchases through UPI. The app also offers rewards and cashback for transactions, making it one of the best UPI apps for daily use in India.
Key Features:
- Direct bank-to-bank UPI transfers
- Bill payments, mobile recharges, and QR code support
- Rewards and scratch cards for transactions
- Trusted by millions due to Google’s security framework
3. Paytm UPI – All-in-One Payment App
Paytm combines UPI, wallet, UPI Lite, and e-commerce services in a single app. It supports recharges, bill payments, ticket booking, and shopping, apart from regular UPI transfers. With wide acceptance among merchants and integration with Paytm QR, it remains one of the most used UPI apps in India.
Key Features:
- UPI payments, wallet, and shopping in one app
- Accepted by millions of offline and online merchants
- Personalized UPI IDs for privacy
- Cashback and rewards for regular users
4. BHIM UPI – The Official NPCI UPI App
BHIM (Bharat Interface for Money) is developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). It focuses on simple, fast, and secure bank-to-bank transfers. BHIM is a lightweight app that works on most smartphones and is ideal for users who want a direct, no-frills UPI experience.
Key Features:
- Instant bank transfers using UPI.
- Simple and user-friendly interface.
- Works with all major Indian banks.
- Official app developed by NPCI.
5. Amazon Pay UPI – Integrated with Shopping
Amazon Pay combines digital shopping and payments in one ecosystem. Users can pay through UPI, recharge mobiles, and settle bills directly within the Amazon app. It also offers attractive cashback and faster checkout during online purchases, making it one of the best UPI apps for Amazon users.
Key Features:
- UPI payments directly from the Amazon app
- Bill payments, recharges, and shopping integration
- Exclusive offers and cashback for Amazon customers
- Highly secure and user-friendly
6. CRED – Premium UPI App with Rewards
CRED is known for its premium interface and focus on financially responsible users. Apart from UPI payments, it allows credit card bill payments, expense tracking, and cashback rewards. It’s ideal for users looking for a UPI app that combines convenience with lifestyle benefits.
Key Features:
- UPI transfers and credit card bill payments
- Cashback, points, and exclusive member offers
- Smart reminders for due bills
- Clean and elegant interface
7. BharatPe – Best UPI App for Businesses and Merchants
BharatPe is designed for small businesses, retailers, and merchants. It enables them to accept UPI payments through a single QR code. The app also offers business loans, credit facilities, and rewards, making it a strong player in India’s merchant payment ecosystem.
Key Features:
- Single QR code for all UPI apps
- No transaction charges for merchants
- Business loans and rewards programs
- Simple setup and fast payments
8. MobiKwik – UPI with Credit and Cashback
MobiKwik offers both wallet and UPI services. Its “ZIP Pay Later” feature allows users to make credit payments. With quick recharges, bill payments, and strong security, it is among the best UPI apps in India for cashback lovers.
Key Features:
- UPI and wallet integration
- “ZIP Pay Later” short-term credit option
- Cashback and SuperCash rewards
- Quick and secure payments
9. Freecharge – Easy and Reliable UPI Payments
Owned by Axis Bank, Freecharge provides a smooth experience for UPI transfers, bill payments, and mobile recharges. It is simple to use, offers cashback, and supports a dedicated UPI handle (@freecharge) for secure transactions.
Key Features:
- UPI transfers, recharges, and bill payments
- Cashback offers for new users
- Axis Bank-backed reliability
- Works with merchant QR codes
10. Airtel Thanks – UPI and Digital Banking Combined
Airtel Thanks is part of Airtel Payments Bank and provides UPI payments along with full digital banking services. It allows quick transfers, recharges, and utility payments, and also lets users earn interest on their savings. With Airtel’s strong network, it reaches users across India.
Key Features:
- UPI payments with banking benefits
- Zero-balance account with interest
- Bill payments and mobile recharges
- Safe and simple for everyday use
Read more: UPI Payments – Accept Payments Online into your Bank Account
Best Mobile Payment Apps
| Rank | UPI App | Description / Key Highlights | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PhonePe | India’s most popular UPI app — fast transfers, bill payments, recharges, investments; supports many Indian languages. | Personal & business payments |
| 2 | Google Pay (GPay) | Simple, secure UPI app with fast transactions and rewards/cashback from Google-level security. | Daily payments & rewards |
| 3 | Paytm UPI | All-in-one app with UPI, wallet, and shopping; widely accepted by offline and online merchants. | Online & offline purchases |
| 4 | BHIM UPI | Official NPCI app — lightweight, no-frills bank-to-bank UPI transfers, easy to use. | Beginners & basic UPI use |
| 5 | Amazon Pay UPI | Integrated with Amazon shopping — fast UPI checkouts, recharges, and exclusive cashback offers. | Amazon shoppers |
| 6 | CRED | Premium app for credit-card users — UPI transfers, card bill payments, rewards and member offers. | Credit card users |
| 7 | BharatPe | Merchant-focused UPI app — single QR for all apps, zero transaction fees, business loans, and credit options. | Businesses & retailers |
| 8 | MobiKwik | Wallet + UPI with “ZIP Pay Later” credit, quick recharges, and cashback rewards. | Cashback & credit users |
| 9 | Freecharge | Axis Bank-backed app for smooth UPI transfers, recharges and bill payments with cashback offers. | Reliable daily transactions |
| 10 | Airtel Thanks | UPI via Airtel Payments Bank — UPI payments plus digital banking features and interest on savings. | Airtel users & digital banking |
How Do UPI Apps Work?
1. Link your Bank Account
A UPI app connects directly to the user’s bank account through the Unified Payments Interface system.
2. Create a UPI ID and PIN
After linking, the user sets up a UPI ID and a secure PIN, which are used to send or receive money safely.
3. Start a Transaction
When a payment is made, the UPI app sends the transfer request to the bank through the UPI network.
4. Instant Processing
The bank verifies the details, confirms the PIN, and completes the transaction instantly.
5. Secure and Real-Time Payments
Every transaction is encrypted and verified, ensuring quick, safe, and reliable money transfers at any time.
Growth of UPI Apps in India
UPI apps have experienced massive growth in India in recent years. Recent reports indicate that UPI transactions crossed 20 billion in August 2025, while their monthly value was ~₹24.85 lakh crore in Aug 2025. The development of leading UPI payment applications has played a crucial role in expanding digital payments, which now positions India among the top markets globally.
With rising smartphone penetration and government initiatives to promote UPI adoption, online payment apps in India will continue to evolve, integrating with e-commerce platforms, investment tools, and financial services to provide a more complete digital banking experience.
Read more: Auto Payment Collection Platform
Criteria for Choosing the Best UPI App
There are many UPI payment apps available in India, and it can be difficult to decide which one to use. Choosing the right app depends on key factors such as safety, ease of use, reliability, and extra features. Below are some important points to consider before selecting a UPI app:
- Security Standards
Security is the most important factor when selecting a UPI app. The safest apps use end-to-end encryption to protect transactions from online fraud. Features like two-factor authentication (2FA), UPI PIN verification, and compliance with NPCI guidelines ensure that payments remain secure and trustworthy. - User Interface and Ease of Navigation
A good UPI app should be simple, quick, and easy to navigate. Smooth design, fast payments, and clear options make transactions hassle-free. Compatibility with both Android and iOS ensures a consistent experience across devices. - Popularity and Trustworthiness
An app’s reputation often reflects its reliability. Highly used apps like PhonePe, Google Pay, and Paytm are trusted by millions of users and most major banks. Checking reviews and ratings can also help identify safe and dependable options. - Additional Features and Rewards
Many UPI apps offer extra benefits such as cashback, bill payments, mobile recharges, and ticket bookings. Some even provide investment tools, insurance, or expense tracking features, making them useful beyond basic money transfers. - Integration with E-commerce and Financial Services
The best UPI apps connect seamlessly with online stores, merchants, and service providers. They allow quick payments through QR codes, fast checkouts on e-commerce platforms, and even support business transactions through UPI-linked payment gateways.
Read more: A Detailed Guide to Help You with Transaction Status Check
Emerging and Latest Trends in Digital Payment Apps
The UPI ecosystem in India is continuously evolving, with new advancements enhancing security, accessibility, and functionality. The latest trends in digital payment apps reflect how UPI apps in India are adapting to meet the changing needs of consumers and businesses.
1. AI-Powered Fraud Detection and Enhanced Security
With the rise of UPI fraud cases, the best UPI payment apps in India are integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) to detect suspicious transactions in real-time.
- AI-based monitoring helps identify fraudulent activities and prevent unauthorized access.
- Apps like Google Pay, PhonePe, and Paytm now employ AI-driven security features.
2. UPI Expansion into Rural Areas
The adoption of UPI apps in India is no longer limited to urban users. The government and fintech companies are:
- Promoting multilingual support in UPI apps to cater to non-English-speaking users.
- Encouraging UPI adoption in rural and semi-urban areas to drive financial inclusion.
- Airtel Payments Bank and Paytm are leading the way in reaching underbanked regions.
3. Integration of UPI with Financial Services
Many top UPI apps in India are integrating investment and banking services to provide users with a complete financial ecosystem.
- PhonePe and Paytm now allow users to invest in mutual funds, gold, and insurance directly from their apps.
- Razorpay and Amazon Pay are introducing lending and credit services alongside UPI transactions.
4. International Expansion of UPI Payments
The NPCI is working on making UPI a global payment system, with several countries exploring UPI adoption.
- UPI payments are being accepted in countries like the UAE, Singapore, France, and Nepal.
- Future updates could enable seamless international transactions using UPI apps.
5. Voice-Based UPI Transactions
To improve accessibility, several best UPI payment apps are rolling out voice-enabled payment features, allowing users to send money via voice commands.
- BHIM UPI and Google Pay have already introduced voice-based transactions in multiple Indian languages.
6. UPI Credit and Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) Integration
Several UPI apps in India are adding credit-based payment options to allow users to make purchases on credit.
Paytm Postpaid and Amazon Pay Later are examples of UPI-integrated credit services.
BNPL features are becoming a popular trend in digital payment apps, offering users flexible repayment options.
7. Offline UPI Payments Using NFC and Sound-Based Technology
To enhance usability in low-connectivity areas, the best UPI apps in India are introducing offline payment options:
- NFC-based UPI transactions (e.g., Google Pay’s Tap-to-Pay feature).
- Sound-based payments (e.g., PhonePe’s “SmartSpeaker” for merchant payments).
These emerging trends show that UPI apps in India are not just transforming digital transactions but are also paving the way for a more inclusive and tech-driven financial landscape.
Conclusion
With the rapid growth of digital transactions, UPI apps in India have become an essential part of everyday financial activities. Whether for peer-to-peer transfers, online shopping, bill payments, or business transactions, choosing the best UPI payment app depends on your needs.
Our blog covered leading UPI apps available in India and detailed their functionalities, along with security features and overall advantages. PhonePe, Google Pay, Paytm, BHIM UPI, and Amazon Pay top the market, both with high user trust levels and large transaction volumes. The safest UPI apps available in India, such as BHIM UPI and Google Pay, concentrate on providing security features alongside fraud prevention measures.
The shift toward a cashless economy in India will drive digital payment apps to advance by adopting AI-based security systems and expanding financial services with international UPI transactions. The optimal UPI app will improve your digital payment experience based on your preferences for security features, reward programs or transaction simplicity.
Select the best UPI payment app in India to achieve secure and instant transactions with no hassle.
FAQs
1. Which UPI app is best for high-value transactions?
For high-value transactions in India, the most suitable UPI payment app depends on its security features and compatibility with different banks. Google Pay, PhonePe, and BHIM UPI enable the smooth handling of big payments through their secure encryption systems and direct integration with banks.
2. Can I use multiple UPI apps with the same bank account?
Users in India can connect one bank account to several UPI applications, including Google Pay and PhonePe, as well as Paytm and Amazon Pay. Every UPI app generates its own Virtual Payment Address (VPA), which is used for transactions.
3. What are the transaction limits for UPI payments in India?
UPI transactions generally have a daily limit of ₹1 lakh per bank account, higher caps apply to specific categories (e.g., capital markets, education, healthcare) as permitted by NPCI/banks. BHIM and Paytm, among the top UPI apps in India, operate with their own transaction limits.
4. How do I ensure my UPI transactions are safe from fraud?
The safest UPI application in India requires you to practice these security measures.
- Never share your UPI PIN with anyone.
- Verify merchant details before making payments.
- Activate app lock and enable transaction notifications in your digital payment application.
5. Which UPI app offers the best cashback rewards?
The top online payment app for cashback in India is:
- Google Pay users receive scratch cards with rewards during their transactions.
- Amazon Pay delivers cashback when you make bill payments or shop online.
- PhonePe and Paytm provide offers that apply to mobile recharges and payments for both travel and merchant services.
6. Can I make international transactions using UPI apps in India?
The UPI system operates mainly within domestic boundaries, yet Indian UPI applications are beginning to reach international markets. NPCI established collaborations with UAE, Nepal, Singapore and France to permit UPI international payments at specific sites.
7. What happens if my UPI transaction fails but the money is deducted?
If a UPI payment app deducts money but the transaction fails:
- The amount is usually refunded within 24-48 hours.
- You can check your UPI transaction history in the app.
- If not refunded, contact the customer support of your Indian online payment app or your bank.
8. Which UPI apps in India support credit payments?
Several best UPI apps in India now support credit-based UPI payments:
- Paytm Postpaid: This offers a monthly credit limit.
- Amazon Pay Later: Provides “Buy Now, Pay Later” (BNPL) options.
- Mobikwik ZIP: Allows users to use credit-based transactions.
9. Can I use UPI apps without an internet connection?
Yes, offline UPI payments can be made using the USSD-based UPI service by dialing *99# from any mobile phone. However, most mobile payment applications still require internet connectivity for QR code-based transactions.
10. How do I change my UPI PIN in case I forget it?
To reset your UPI PIN in any top UPI app in India:
- Open the UPI app and go to the linked bank account settings.
- Select the option to reset the UPI PIN.
- Enter your debit card details and verify with OTP.
- Set a new UPI PIN and confirm the change.
