NPCI plans single soundbox system for all UPI apps
18 May 2026, 05:34 PMIf implemented, the move could simplify payment confirmations at crowded retail counters while reducing hardware and subscription expenses for merchants.
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The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) is working on a common soundbox platform that would allow shopkeepers to receive transaction alerts from all UPI apps through a single device, The Economic Times reported, citing unidentified people.
The proposed system is being designed to work across QR codes and payment applications, enabling merchants to link multiple payment apps to one soundbox. The device would then announce successful payments irrespective of whether customers pay via PhonePe, Paytm, Google Pay or any other UPI application.
Today, many merchants maintain separate QR codes and soundboxes from competing payment firms such as PhonePe, Paytm and BharatPe. This means merchants often pay separate subscription fees for each service.
Industry estimates suggest merchants typically spend between Rs 100 and Rs 150 per month for every soundbox they use, adding to operational costs for small businesses and neighbourhood stores.
NPCI has already conducted preliminary conversations with major payment firms and internally tested the interoperability model, although a broader rollout may still take time.
If implemented, the move could simplify payment confirmations at crowded retail counters while reducing hardware and subscription expenses for merchants.
The development also signals a potential shift in the competitive dynamics of the UPI ecosystem.
Over the past few years, soundboxes have evolved beyond simple payment confirmation devices, becoming an important merchant engagement tool for payment companies. Firms have used them to strengthen merchant relationships, distribute financial products and generate recurring subscription revenue.
A common platform, however, could dilute some of that exclusivity by making the underlying infrastructure interoperable across apps.
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