hen the fi rst smartphones arrived on the
scene, one of the fi rst application ideas
was to use them as digital wallets. It has
taken nearly twenty years for this idea to
materialize in a form that any adult can
confi gure and use. Unlike prior digital wal-
lets that required multiple transactional
parties and banks to participate, Apple has made the steps to
acquire and use digital credit an easy, painless, and dare I say,
fun process. The Apple Card has arrived.
THE APPLICATION PROCESS
Signing up for the Apple Card is as easy as launching the
Wallet app on your iPhone. Upon doing so, you can opt to
add the Apple Card to your Wallet. You’ll be prompted to enter
your name, address, birthday, income, and last four digits of
your Social Security number. If your income and credit score
meet the minimum threshold, Apple will determine your cred-
it limit and Annual Percentage Rate (APR), which can range
from 12.99 to 23.99 percent.
“SIGNING UP FOR THE
APPLE CARD IS AS EASY AS
LAUNCHING THE WALLET
APP ON YOUR IPHONE.”
Unlike some other credit card companies, Apple doesn’t
tack on penalties, annual subscription, or transaction fees. If
you agree to the terms, selecting the “Accept Apple Card”
button will issue your card and give you the choice to have a
physical credit card. While some digital natives may prefer not
to accept this option, it’s one of the primary reasons this ser-
vice garnered so much hype.HANDS ON WITH THE
PHYSICAL APPLE CARD
It took nearly two weeks for my card to arrive in the mail,
and the anticipation of receiving and inspecting it was similar
to waiting for other Apple products. The presentation of the
box and the meticulously machined, stamped slice of titanium
is unlike any other credit card I have received. It has a weighty
feel and makes a satisfying steely sound when placed on aBY MIKE RILEY
W