Apple Pay utilizes the Visa Token Service (VTS), a security technology that replaces cardholder information, such as account numbers and expiration dates, with a unique digital identifier (a "token") that can be used for payment without exposing a cardholder’s more sensitive account information.

Tokenisation hides consumers’ confidential account information during digital transactions, making digital payments more secure for everyone, everywhere.

When you use a credit or debit card with Apple Pay, the actual card numbers are not stored on the device, nor on Apple servers.

Instead, a unique Device Account Number is assigned, encrypted and securely stored in the Secure Element on your device. Each transaction is authorized with a one-time unique dynamic security code.

Visa Hong Kong and Macau country manager Caroline Ada said: "Visa is proud to support issuers in Hong Kong who want to launch Apple Pay to bring their customers a more secure and convenient way to pay. In Hong Kong contactless payments have become a necessity for everyday life.

"One in ten Visa transactions in Hong Kong is a Visa payWave transaction and we expect the number of contactless payments to grow even further, driven by Hong Kong consumers’ savviness and willingness to adopt new mobile technology like Apple Pay. We look forward to bringing a whole new way of paying to consumers in Hong Kong."

Apple Pay is easy to set up and users will continue to receive all of the rewards and benefits offered by credit and debit cards. In participating stores, Apple Pay works with iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone SE and Apple Watch.

Online shopping in apps accepting Apple Pay is simple, without needing to repeatedly fill out lengthy account forms or type in shipping and billing information. When paying for goods and services within apps, Apple Pay is compatible with iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone SE, iPad Air 2, iPad mini 3, iPad mini 4 and iPad Pro.