HT Bureau
GUWAHATI, March 1: PhonePe has announced the launch of an AI-powered natural language search feature developed using Microsoft Foundry, enabling users to navigate, pay and track transaction insights through simple voice or text commands within the app.
The new feature allows users to initiate and complete in-app tasks using natural language, replacing traditional menu-based navigation with intent-driven routing.
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For example, a command such as “Pay Hemanth 20 rupees” automatically opens the payment interface with the intended recipient pre-selected or displays relevant contacts.
Similarly, queries like “Recharge FASTag” or “Gold price” take users directly to the appropriate service page or display relevant information and transaction options.
According to the company, the AI system can interpret user intent beyond simple keyword matching, determining whether a user wants to make a payment, complete a purchase or seek support assistance.
The feature operates on a hybrid model that combines on-device and cloud inferencing while ensuring that personal and transactional data remains secure within the PhonePe ecosystem.
Rahul Chari, Founder, Whole-time Director and CTO of PhonePe, said the initiative marks a shift from building payment apps as purely transactional tools to creating more intuitive and intelligent interfaces.
He stated that artificial intelligence will help make digital payments more accessible by understanding user intent rather than just inputs, while maintaining privacy and security.
Puneet Chandok, President, Microsoft India and South Asia, said the collaboration demonstrates how natural language interfaces can make digital payments more intuitive and inclusive for millions of users. He noted that Microsoft Foundry provides secure and scalable AI capabilities to help organisations build human-centred digital products. The AI-powered search feature will be rolled out in phases across India and can be accessed through the Global Search Bar, Help Center and History tab within the PhonePe app.
