This Auto Driver Just Taps His Smartwatch To Accept Payments

In tech Twitter circles, Bengaluru is said to ‘peak’ whenever a local embraces new technological advancements or, even better, innovates. For over thirty years, the city has been at the forefront of IT and innovation in India, earning the nickname “Silicon Valley of India.” This progress is not solely driven by established tech companies; many popular services, including quick-commerce and fintech, originated in Bengaluru.

The term ‘peak’ also implies that a Bangalorean has integrated these innovations into their everyday life. For instance, the auto driver, referred to as “Anna,” displays a QR code on his smartwatch to accept payments from passengers.

While there have been some “quirky” exceptions—such as a Chennai auto driver who refused to use Google Pay or stop at ATMs—it is becoming increasingly common for blue-collar workers to adopt digital payment methods. Notably, this instance marks the first documentation of a rickshaw driver utilizing a smartwatch for receiving payments.

Social Media Reactions:

One user commented, “Liked it but, I prefer he should stick paper with QR code on back of seat!!” However, another user quickly countered this idea, highlighting potential risks: “No I think there’s a bigger reason. In some cases, passengers illicitly pasted their QR code over the auto driver’s code. And the driver didn’t find out till perhaps end of the day. To bypass this entire problem I think, he’s done that.”

Earlier, a Bengaluru techie made headlines after revealing her “fun, corporate-style” strategy for managing household chores with her flatmates.