Why Does the Apple Pay App Show Up?

iOS users may notice that the Apple Pay app launches when using a mobile card in background mode. This happens because:

  • A payment card is registered in Apple Wallet.
  • When you tap the NFC area of your iPhone on the reader, Apple Pay automatically opens.
  • Even when using Bluetooth as the contact method in the Airfob app, Apple Pay may still launch because the NFC and Bluetooth antennas on iPhones are very close.

Although the mobile card will still function correctly, the Apple Pay pop-up may be inconvenient. Follow the solution below to prevent Apple Pay from launching.


Solution: Use the Airfob App in Foreground Mode

Setting the Airfob app’s connection method to "App is Running" prevents Apple Pay from appearing.

How to Enable Foreground Mode

  1. Open the Airfob app and tap the ≡ button in the upper right corner.
  2. Choose "App is Running" as the contact method.
  3. Return to the main screen and use your mobile card as usual.

What is "App is Running" Mode?

In this mode, the Airfob app must be open on your screen when using the mobile card. While this requires the app to be in the foreground, it reduces battery consumption compared to "Always" mode.