After releasing the Biometric Payment feature for PhonePe users, the app is now bringing a new AI-powered search within the app using Microsoft Foundry. In a press release shared by PhonePe, the rollout has already begun across India and will be done in phases, meaning it may take some time to reach all users.
With this feature, users will be able to perform tasks within the app, such as making payments or even checking balances using voice commands. For example, requests such as “Pay Hemanth 20 rupees” automatically launch the payment interface with the recipient pre-selected or display all relevant contacts named Hemanth. Similarly, commands like “Recharge FASTag” or “Gold price” navigate users to the appropriate page or surface the most relevant information or transactional options.
Other than this, the feature is designed to understand the user intent behind transactions rather than just processing them. It determines whether users are making payments, making purchases, or seeking support by utilising a combination of on-device and cloud inferencing for processing. PhonePe also confirms that processing is secure, ensuring that no personal or transactional data leaves the PhonePe environment.
Speaking on the launch, Rahul Chari, Founder, Whole-time Director & CTO, PhonePe, said: “For years, payment apps have been built as utilitarian tools, optimized for transactions and not people. This launch is the first step towards changing that. Our vision is to make payments accessible to every Indian, and AI enables us to build an intelligent interface that anticipates what users need before they even go looking for it. Through our collaboration with Microsoft, we aim to simplify payments further by understanding intent, not just inputs. And we believe intelligence at the edge is the future and the most thoughtful way to deliver real value without compromising on privacy or security.”
Puneet Chandok, President, Microsoft India and South Asia said: “As more Indians embrace natural language to interact with digital services, PhonePe’s new AI-powered experience is a strong step toward more intuitive and accessible digital payments. Microsoft Foundry provides the underlying capabilities that help innovators like PhonePe build secure, scalable and human-centred products for millions. We’re committed to supporting India’s digital ecosystem with trusted AI that empowers organisations to deliver simpler and more meaningful customer experiences.”
This new feature can be accessed via the Global Search Bar, Help Center, and the History tab in the PhonePe app on both Android and iOS.
