Apple released iOS 8.1 today, which enables every iPhone 6 or 6 Plus to use the new Apple Pay service. We decided to take it for a test drive right here in the Hudson Valley.

It sounds almost too good to be true; Just take out your phone, hold your finger over the home button and wave it in front of any NFC-powered credit card machine and you're done. Well, in our field test this Monday we found that it actually IS that easy... that is, if you can find a retailer that has their credit card machines hooked up properly.

Upgrading to the new iOS 8.1 was quick and easy. Unlike the initial 8.0 upgrade that took hours, if not days to download, we were prepared for a long wait. But right after 1pm EST the upgrade was ready, downloaded and installed quickly.

Apple Screenshot
Apple Screenshot
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It was quick and simple to enter settings and load my credit card onto the phone. I used the one that's already attached to my iTunes, but entering a new card is as simple as taking a picture.

Apple Screenshot
Apple Screenshot
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There is no big fanfare or instructions after loading your credit card, so I was a little unsure if the whole process would work. Nevertheless, I headed out to find a store that would accept Apple Pay and give this sucker a test drive.

My first stop was Subway. Listed as an official partner for Apple Pay, I figured a foot long would be a great way to try things out. Unfortunately, the Poughkeepsie location I went to did not have a NFC-powered credit card machine. It was a sketchy looking unattached machine and the nice lady that worked behind the counter seemed extremely confused when I started waving my phone in front of it. Defeated, I pulled out my $5 and exchanged it for what was supposed to be my victory foot-long.

Undaunted, and fueled by processed meat, I forged onward. Up the road was a Panera Bread, another Apple Pay partner. Perhaps I would have more luck there. As I approached the counter I noticed the big screened credit card readers and felt more confident that I would have my chance to try the new technology out. I ordered a coffee and cookie (because why not) and my total popped up on the register. Without even asking the cashier I pulled out my phone with my finger on the home button and it immediately vibrated. My credit card appeared on the screen and before I knew it my receipt was in my hand. In addition, my phone already had a notification that I had paid with my card.

Apple Screen Shot
Apple Screen Shot
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In summary, I was blown away with how easy Apple Pay is. This is a game-changer and will surely revolutionize how credit card transactions are made. Not only is it more convenient, there was no possibility of anyone stealing my credit card number or information. My information was still safely in my wallet and all that was exchanged with Panera was a traceless transaction number that could not be used again for any other purchase.

However, the reality is that we don't live in Manhattan... we live in The Hudson Valley. Technology seems to take its time getting here. I remember getting strange looks at Blockbuster when I asked if they rented DVDs for the first time. My Mobil Speedpass works great everywhere but at the gas stations in Dutchess County and I still get a heavy sigh when I hold up my phone at the pharmacy to have my loyalty card scanned. So I expect it's going to take some time for local stores to get on board with Apple Pay. But trust me... It'll be worth the wait.

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