Apple Pay May Be Coming to China in Early 2016; New Apple Store Opens at Joy City Chaoyang

Apple's Apple Pay could be joining Alipay, Baidu Wallet, and WeChat Wallet as an electronic payment option in China starting next year, The Wall Street Journal reported.

The iPhone-based payment system, which is at least as easy to use as its Chinese rivals, could become available as early as February, WSJ reported, citing sources familiar with the situation. The American technology giant has made deals with China's top four state banks, which could pave the way for the proximity payment option's roll-out. Alibaba boss Jack Ma, whose Alipay currently accounts for 45 percent of the electronic payment market, has expressed interest in partnering with Apple before, and has met with Apple CEO Tim Cook.

It's not the only area where Apple is expanding. The company is set to open its fifth Apple Store at Joy City Chaoyang on this Saturday (Nov 28) at 10am.

Why is that important? Because every store that opens that isn't Sanlitun means that it's easier to schedule an appointment at the Genius Bar. Pro tip: forget getting anything repaired at the Sanlitun store. Use the other options at Joy City (Chaoyang or Xidan), Wangfujing, or China Central Mall/Hua Mao. You're welcome.

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