Accept payments on phone

How to Accept Payments on Your Phone Without a Card Reader

Learn how to accept payments on phone using secure EFTPOS on phone technology. Discover how SoftPOS works, the benefits for Australian businesses and how Nexxtap lets you take fast, contactless payments without a card reader.


 

A practical guide for Australian businesses moving to EFTPOS on phone technology

Accepting payments has come a long way from bulky tills, tangled charger cords and terminals that somehow run flat right when the queue starts forming. Today you can accept payments on phone using technology that is fast, secure and completely hardware free. All you need is a compatible device and a trusted SoftPOS provider.

This guide explains how EFTPOS on phone works, why so many Australian businesses are adopting it and how you can start taking card payments on your phone securely. If you want a simple and flexible way to handle payments without carrying extra devices, this will take you through everything you need to know.

Why businesses are moving to mobile payments

Digital payments have become part of everyday life. Customers tap to pay with watches, phones and contactless cards without a second thought. As this behaviour grows, businesses are shifting away from fixed payment terminals and leaning into tools that offer more flexibility.

The Reserve Bank of Australia has consistently reported that tap and go purchases now make up the majority of in person transactions, driven by the widespread use of contactless cards and mobile wallets.

Three key trends explain why EFTPOS on phone has taken off in recent years.

1. Digital wallets are now mainstream

Customers routinely pay with Apple Pay, Google Wallet and Samsung Wallet. Whether they tap their phone or watch, they expect businesses to offer a matching contactless experience.

Find more information on a Google Wallet overview here 

2. Contactless cards dominate

Tap enabled Mastercard and Visa cards are now the default way Australians pay in store. This shift aligns perfectly with businesses wanting to accept payments on phone using secure NFC technology.

For more information on the Mastercard on contactless security

3. Mobile first tools support flexible work

Tradies, wellness professionals, home service providers and event based businesses operate on the move. EFTPOS on phone lets them accept payments anywhere without the hassle of carrying extra hardware.

Nexxtap x Samsung Sydney - 17

What is EFTPOS on phone and how does it work?

EFTPOS on phone, also known as SoftPOS, turns a compatible smartphone into a secure payment terminal. Instead of pairing a physical card reader, the payment app uses the phone’s NFC sensor to read, tap and go transactions from cards, phones and wearables.

Here is what the technology handles.

  • Contactless Mastercard, Amex, Visa and EFTPOS cards
    • Mobile wallets including Google Pay and Samsung Pay
    • Digital receipts
    • Transaction history and reporting
    • Bank grade encryption

To accept payments on phone, simply open the app, enter the amount and ask the customer to tap. The payment processes are just like a standard terminal, only without the hardware.

Nexxtap works exactly this way, giving Australian businesses a secure and cost effective way to accept payments on phone using an Android device.

Learn more about what softPOS is here

Why accept payments without a card reader?

Removing the need for physical hardware comes with several clear benefits.

Cost savings

Traditional terminals often come with monthly rental fees or steep upfront costs. Switching to EFTPOS on phone removes hardware expenses entirely. Nexxtap uses a simple low transaction rate with no rentals or lock in contracts.

Portability

Whether you run a market stall, trade onsite, offer mobile services or simply want a more streamlined setup, accepting card payments on your phone keeps everything quick and convenient.

Fewer tech issues

Terminals can lose connection, freeze or run out of battery. With EFTPOS on phone, you rely on your mobile device, something you already charge, manage and carry daily.

All in one business tools

Mobile payment apps often include reporting and transaction history, giving you better visibility of cash flow from anywhere.

Better customer experience

Fast tap and go transactions keep things moving during busy periods and match the modern experience customers expect.

How to accept card payments on your phone

Getting started is straightforward and takes only a few steps.

1. Check that your phone is compatible

You will need an Android device with NFC enabled. NFC lets the phone read contactless cards securely. If you currently use Google Pay or Samsung Pay to make purchases, your phone already has the right technology.


Reference: NFC explained https://www.nfc-forum.org/what-is-nfc/ 

2. Choose a secure SoftPOS provider

Look for PCI DSS and PCI PIN compliant apps, as these meet global security requirements for card transactions and PIN entry.

Reference: PCI Security Standards Council https://www.pcisecuritystandards.org/

Nexxtap is fully compliant and uses rigorous encryption to keep card data and merchant information protected.

3. Complete your merchant onboarding

A proper onboarding process helps prevent delayed settlements and withheld funds. Once approved, you can begin accepting payments through the app.

4. Make sure you have a stable internet connection

Wi Fi, 4G and 5G all work. If your phone can browse the internet, it can process a payment. Simply enter the transaction amount and ask your customer to tap their card, phone or watch.

Hot tip: if you work in rural or remote areas, consider using a portable solution like Starlink to ensure reliable internet for payments.

Mobile Vet with Nexxtap

Security and compliance when using your phone to accept payments

Security is often the biggest concern when learning how to accept mobile payments or how to use phone to pay. SoftPOS technology is built with strict security standards to ensure safe transactions.

Choose trusted providers

Always select PCI DSS certified apps to ensure secure processing.

Keep everything updated

Updates fix vulnerabilities and strengthen security. Keep your device and payment app up to date.

Turn on two factor authentication

2FA adds an extra layer of protection for your account.

Monitor your activity

Regularly reviewing your transaction history helps you catch anything suspicious early.

Protect your device

Your phone effectively becomes your payment terminal, so secure it with a PIN, biometric lock and safe storage.

Who benefits most from EFTPOS on phone?

EFTPOS on phone suits a wide range of industries, especially those that value mobility or simplicity.

  • Market stallholders and food vendors
    • Trades and mobile services
    • Fitness instructors and wellness practitioners
    • Retail stores adding extra checkout points
    • Not for profits and community organisations
    • Freelancers and sole traders
    • Mobile beauticians, vets, groomers and therapists

It is also a great backup option when traditional terminals go offline.

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What to look for when choosing a mobile payment app

When comparing apps that let you accept payments on phone, consider:

  • Security compliance
    • Device compatibility
    • Settlement times
    • Pricing structure
    • Ease of use
    • Local support availability
    • Reliability and app performance

Nexxtap offers secure processing, clear pricing, fast onboarding and a user-friendly experience designed specifically for Australian businesses.

Final thoughts

EFTPOS on phone is reshaping how small businesses take payments across Australia. It removes bulky hardware, reduces costs and gives customers the fast tap and go experience they expect. Whether you run a mobile business, operate at events or simply want a more flexible in person payment option, accepting card payments on your phone is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make.

If you are ready to accept mobile payments without a terminal, Nexxtap gives you a secure and affordable way to get started.

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