A centralized payment system will never be able to provide the best service for users. With a single entity in control -- as opposed to an open system where newcomers can enter and compete with incumbents -- there are no competitors, and competitors are responsible for pushing down fees and adding innovation, thus forcing incumbents to follow along or fade away. That's why the web is so successful: competition is built in through an open protocol, so competitors can replace incumbents by providing a better service/price.<p>With the iPod and iTunes, and the iPhone and the App Store, Apple created something that didn't exist before, and captured most of the newly created market. Replicating VISA's business model doesn't do the same, but simply adds a couple of features to an otherwise closed system where users will not benefit from competition.<p>An actual alternative to VISA needs to be open, allowing for competitors to easily enter and compete with existing actors. Such a system is the Stroem protocol on top of Bitcoin, which is a thin clearing protocol designed for competition, constantly forcing issuers to follow along on price or be left behind. This is what merchants want, and what's needed to revolutionize payments.
Does anybody know how Apple Pay peer-to-peer actually works? I find all the information I can on the web disappointingly light. The same thing was true for the original Apple Pay which lead to myths like Apple Pay using a new PAN every time out pay.<p>> Bank transfers will be handled separately.<p>When are bank transfers used and for what? For unloading? If so do you have to unload via bank transfer or can you use a CFT transaction? I can't imagine a case where you want to unload using an ACH or SWIFT transaction. I would image you always want to use a domestic settlement system or T2 if you can.<p>> Apple Pay Cash’s back-end is powered by a Green Dot-backed Visa prepaid card<p>Only in the US or globally? I imagine there is a lot of fine print associated with that like the amount of funds you can store. I will get a tax statement even if I live outside the US, right?