Does Cici’s Take Apple Pay?

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Cici’s Pizza is a popular American pizza buffet restaurant chain with over 500 locations across the United States. They are known for their affordable all-you-can-eat pizza buffet and variety of pasta, salad, and dessert options. But with the rise in mobile and contactless payments, many customers wonder: does Cici’s take Apple Pay?

Does Cici's Take Apple Pay?

Does Cici’s Take Apple Pay?

Yes, most Cici’s locations do accept Apple Pay as a payment method. Apple Pay allows you to use your iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, or Mac to make secure, contactless payments in stores that accept tap-and-go payment methods.

To use Apple Pay at Cici’s, simply hold your compatible Apple device near the payment terminal during checkout. You will see the Apple Pay symbol on screens to confirm they accept it. Then authorize the payment using Face ID, Touch ID, or by entering your passcode. It’s that quick and easy!

Some key things to note about using Apple Pay at Cici’s Pizza:

  • Not all locations may accept it yet. It’s best to call ahead to confirm or look for Apple Pay symbols at the register.
  • You need an iPhone 6 or newer model to use Apple Pay. It also works with an Apple Watch, iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad Mini, or newer Mac models.
  • Your credit/debit card needs to be activated on Apple Pay in the Wallet app first before you can use it in stores.

So for fast, convenient checkout, Apple Pay is a great contactless payment option at participating Cici’s Pizza restaurants nationwide.

Activating Cards on Apple Pay

To use Apple Pay in stores, you must first add your credit, debit, or prepaid cards to the Apple Pay wallet on your compatible iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, or Mac. Here is how to set up Apple Pay with your cards:

On iPhone and iPad

  1. Open the Wallet app
  2. Tap the “+” icon in the top-right
  3. Use your device camera to scan your card or enter details manually
  4. Follow activation prompts and agree to terms
  5. Verify with bank or card issuer (if required)

On Apple Watch

  1. Install watchOS 6.2 or later
  2. Open Apple Watch app on iPhone & tap “Wallet & Apple Pay”
  3. Tap “Add Card” and follow steps to add
  4. Allow watch to verify with your bank

On Mac

  1. Ensure Mac is 2013 or later model running macOS Sierra 10.12.6 or later
  2. Open Apple menu > System Preferences > Wallet & Apple Pay
  3. Click “+” under credit cards section
  4. Enter card details and follow prompts to activate

You can add up to 12 cards on iPhone, 8 on Apple Watch, and unlimited cards on Mac (may require re-verification depending on financial institution).

How To Use Apple Pay In Cici’s

Once you have Apple Pay all set up, using it to buy your buffet at Cici’s Pizza is simple:

  1. Add items to your order as normal or request the all-you-can-eat buffet
  2. When it comes time to pay, look for the Apple Pay symbol on the payment terminal screen
  3. On your ‌iPhone or Apple ‌Watch, double-click side button and hold device near reader
  4. For Face ID iPhones, double click then authenticate with Face ID
  5. For Touch ID iPhones, rest finger on home button
  6. For Apple Watch, double click side button
  7. Listen for beep sound and look for checkmark on screen to confirm

It takes just a few seconds! For checks over a certain amount (like $100), you may also need to enter your passcode or provide a signature.

Contactless payments like Apple Pay make checkout faster than chip cards or magnetic stripe cards. Plus your actual credit card number is never shared with the store. Each transaction uses a one-time dynamic security code to keep your information private and secure.

Apple Pay Security and Privacy

Security and privacy are at the core of Apple Pay’s design. When you use Apple Pay, your actual credit/debit card numbers are never stored on your device or shared with merchants. Here are some key security protections:

  • Tokenization – Your card details are replaced with a unique token or Device Account Number used for that single transaction.
  • Dynamic Security Code – A one-time code is generated for each purchase instead of sending your CVV.
  • Data Encryption – All transactions are encrypted from the Secure Element chip to the outlet’s point of sale terminal.
  • Biometric Authentication – Local authentication with Touch ID or Face ID verification adds an extra layer of security before each payment.

Your most frequently used card is set as the default and then all you have to do is authenticate with a fingerprint or face scan to pay. These biometric checks ensure only you can authorize payments.

On Apple Watch, double clicking the side button acts as your authorization. On Mac, recently used cards will remain available in the Wallet app so you don’t have to re-enter a password/passcode each time.

So you get speed, convenience, and peace of mind knowing Apple Pay keeps your card details private while also reducing the risks inherent with physical cards.

Cici’s Apple Pay Support Status

As of 2023, most corporate-owned Cici’s Pizza restaurants accept and support Apple Pay nationwide. However, it is important to note that individually franchised locations may still be in the process of activating and upgrading payment terminals.

Here are a few ways to check if your local Cici’s Pizza accepts Apple Pay before visiting:

  • Call ahead – Contact your nearby restaurants directly and ask if they accept Apple Pay or contactless payments
  • Check online reviews – Look for recent customer reviews mentioning use of Apple Pay at that specific store
  • Look for signs/stickers at entrance – Many stores now display Apple Pay marks at the door or counter
  • Ask cashier upon arrival – Once in-store, ask ahead of time if Apple Pay is supported

You can also provide feedback to the store manager if you wish to have Apple Pay accepted at your frequently visited location. This helps them gauge demand and priorities for contactless payment systems.

As more customers utilize mobile wallets, adoption rates continue rising across major retail, grocery, restaurants, and gas stations. Soon Apple Pay will be available nearly everywhere you dine and shop!

The Bottom Line

So in summary – yes, Cici’s does accept Apple Pay at most corporate-owned stores with newer point of sale systems. Before your next visit, double check that your local restaurant has necessary NFC terminals by calling ahead, reading recent reviews mentioning Apple Pay, looking for contactless symbols at entrance, or by asking in-store cashiers.

And if a franchise location doesn’t accept Apple Pay yet, kindly request they upgrade readers or provide corporate feedback. This will help increase demand and speed up installations over time.

That way you can leave your physical wallet behind and pay for your Cici’s buffet using just your iPhone, Apple Watch or even Mac. It’s the fastest way to get pizza in your belly!

Key Takeaways:

  • Cici’s Pizza accepts Apple Pay at most corporate-owned locations
  • You must first add credit/debit cards to Apple Wallet app to set up Apple Pay
  • Authentication requires Face ID, Touch ID, passcodes or double clicking Apple Watch side button
  • Tokenization and encryption keeps payment details private and secure
  • Not all franchised stores may support it yet – best to check ahead of visiting
  • Providing feedback helps stores prioritize contactless reader upgrades

Conclusion

In conclusion, Apple Pay is now widely supported at Cici’s Pizza across their 500+ restaurants in 35 states for safe and easy contactless payments. Just make sure to call ahead or confirm with staff that your local store has NFC terminals installed before relying solely on mobile wallet. Activate your cards in Apple’s Wallet app and authenticate payments with Face ID or Touch ID during checkout. So leave your plastic cards behind and leverage Apple Pay for secure, convenient payments on your next Cici’s pizza outing!

Frequently Asked Questions 

  1. Does every Cici’s location accept Apple Pay?
    No, some franchised locations may still need to upgrade payment terminals. It’s best to check with each store before visiting.
  1. Can I use Apple Pay at Cici’s self-serve drink stations?
    Unfortunately no, you can only use Apple Pay with staff at checkout registers at this time.
  1. Do I need an Apple Pay-compatible iPhone to use it?
    Yes, you’ll need an iPhone 6 or newer. Apple Pay also works with Apple Watch, newer iPads or MacBooks.
  1. Does Cici’s accept other contactless payments like Google Pay?
    Yes, most stores with Apple Pay also accept contactless payments through Google Pay, Samsung Pay or credit cards with the contactless symbol.
  1. Is Apple Pay secure to use at Cici’s?
    Yes, very secure. Each transaction generates a unique code and your card details are never shared directly.
  1. What if my local Cici’s doesn’t accept Apple Pay yet?
    Kindly request they upgrade readers or provide feedback to corporate to prioritize contactless installed.
  1. How do I add my cards to Apple Pay?
    Open the Wallet app on iPhone or Apple Watch app on iPhone. Tap “+”, scan card or add manually, then follow prompts.
  1. Is there a transaction limit when using Apple Pay at Cici’s?
    There’s no specified limit but some banks may require additional authentication on purchases $100+ or more.
  1. Do I still earn credit card rewards and points when using Apple Pay?
    Yes, you earn all the same rewards and benefits as using the physical card.
  1. Do I need to unlock my iPhone to use Apple Pay at Cici’s?
    If Face ID or Touch ID is set up, your iPhone can be locked. Otherwise, you need to enter your passcode before tapping.
  1. Can someone use my lost iPhone to make Cici’s purchases with Apple Pay?
    No, authentication is still required even on lost devices. You can mark cards lost instantly with Find My app too.
  1. Is Apple Pay cheaper or more expensive than using my physical card at Cici’s Pizza?
    Apple Pay transactions are exactly the same cost. Cici’s cannot charge a fee either.
  1. What do I do if there’s an error using Apple Pay at Cici’s Pizza?
    You can retry with the same card or phone cashier for assistance. Be sure you have an active internet connection.
  1. Is it rude to hold up the line while setting up Apple Pay initially at Cici’s?
    It’s understandable you may take extra seconds first try! Just step aside after order is ready rather than delaying others.
  1. Do I have to wipe my iPhone after using Apple Pay at Cici’s?
    No, each Apple Pay transaction generates a unique one-time code. Your details stay protected.
  1. Can kids or teenagers use Apple Pay at Cici’s if it’s set up through a guardian?
    Yes, with Family Sharing, kids can access a parent’s stored Apple Pay cards with permission and use at Cici’s!

  2. Where can I see recent Cici’ Pizza Apple Pay transactions on iPhone?
    You can open Wallet app > tap card > scroll to bottom > tap latest transactions.

  3. Will my Cici’s Apple Pay transactions sync between iPhone, Watch and Mac?
    Yes, Apple Pay keeps everything in sync across devices logged into the same Apple ID.

  4. Does paying with Apple Pay at Cici’s build my credit score?
    Yes, it reports as a regular purchase so it positively helps establish utilization history.

  5. Can tourists use Apple Pay at any Cici’s Pizza restaurant nationwide?
    Definitely! As long as the store accepts contactless payments, any customer worldwide can utilize Apple Pay.

 

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