Historical series Itaú Unibanco launches Tap-to-Pix directly in the app
Focusing on security and speed in payments, from now on, clients who use Android systems have one more Pix option available
January 2026 — Itaú Unibanco announces the release of Tap-to-Pix (Pix por aproximação, in Portuguese. Pix is the Central Bank of Brazil’s instant payment) system directly in the Itaú Superapp, making payments at card machines even simpler by eliminating the step of scanning the QR Code. Now, the client just needs to open the app, tap their phone, confirm their password, and complete the transaction. This solution increases convenience and the security of instant transactions, reinforces the Pix portfolio already available in Google’s digital wallet, and now includes Android users who prefer the bank’s app for their operations. Additionally, one of the highlights is that this new feature offers the possibility to split purchases that are made as single payments at card machines, providing even more convenience for consumers.
The Tap-to-Pix experience was designed with multiple layers of security, from device authentication to the encryption of information during the transaction. Each payment is authorized using the same security standards already present in the Itaú Superapp – the client sets a daily limit, with a maximum value of R$500 per transaction – which ensures that data remains confidential and the operation is completely secure.
Furthermore, transactions follow all guidelines set by the Central Bank and use Pix’s own infrastructure, which operates with traceability and immediate settlement.
Tap-to-Pix Features
Tap-to-Pix solutions aim to offer flexibility for different client profiles. Those who already frequently use tap-to-pay can choose Google’s Digital Wallet, which allows payment without opening the app. For those who prefer to track everything through the app or are not used to tap-to-pay, Pix directly in the Superapp is ideal: just open, tap, and confirm. Additionally, merchants and card machines are already prepared to receive Tap-to-Pix payments, ensuring a simple and secure experience. This strategy ensures that the client chooses the method that best suits their behavior and needs, whether for maximum convenience or full control at the time of payment.
“Security is at the center of all our initiatives. Itaú Unibanco consistently invests in innovation, automation, and digital protection, focusing on modernizing payment methods in Brazil. Pix represents a milestone in the country’s financial transformation, and we are accompanying this evolution by prioritizing the client experience and transaction reliability. This delivery in the Superapp reinforces our commitment to making instant payments more accessible and secure,” says Mario Miguel, Director of Payments for Individuals at Itaú Unibanco.
Taking a leading role in building the solution, Itaú announced Tap-to-Pix in 2024; since November, clients of the bank and other financial institutions have been able to make Pix NFC payments at all “laranjinhas” – Itaú’s payment card machines – operated by Rede. Besides the benefits for consumers, the solution brings more speed and convenience to commercial establishments by reducing transaction times (eliminating the need to scan QR Codes) and improving the shopping experience, as well as enabling real-time payment settlement.