Coinbase Enhances Onramp with Apple Pay Integration for Easier Crypto Purchases
Coinbase, the leading cryptocurrency exchange in the U.S., is streamlining crypto transactions by integrating Apple Pay into its fiat-to-crypto payment system, Onramp.
This move is designed to simplify the process of buying crypto and funding self-custody wallets, which the company believes has often been hindered by excessive complexity. As Coinbase noted, the friction involved in these processes has led to many users abandoning their crypto ventures.
The feature, which was introduced to a select group of clients right before Thanksgiving, aims to make onboarding more accessible. Coinbase acknowledged the typical challenges, such as long verification processes and the need to use multiple apps, which can deter potential users.
Onramp, previously known as Coinbase Pay, is a developer-friendly tool consisting of APIs and a software development kit (SDK). It allows developers to integrate a seamless fiat-to-crypto payment system into mobile apps, web platforms, and browser extensions. It is already used by well-known wallets like MetaMask, Rainbow, Phantom, and Coinbase Wallet itself.
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Supporting over 60 currencies, Onramp links to users’ bank accounts, debit cards, and Coinbase accounts, offering a simplified KYC process and free USDC transfers. To onboard through Onramp, users simply log in to Coinbase, complete two-factor authentication, and grant the app permission to make transactions on their behalf.
This integration with Apple Pay was initially disclosed in an October update on Coinbase’s Developer Platform. As of now, Apple Pay boasts around 60 million U.S. users, which could significantly expand access to cryptocurrency for a broader audience.