ANZ signs up to Apple Pay contactless

ANZ is the first of the big Australian banks to let customers pay with their iPhones and Apple Watches by signing up for Apple Pay.

ANZ has become the first of Australia's big four banks to let customers pay with their iPhones. (AAP)

ANZ has become the first of Australia's big four banks to sign up to Apple Pay, which lets customers use their mobiles as credit cards.

Customers with an ANZ American Express or Visa card can opt to swipe their iPhone or Apple Watch to make contactless payments.

Along with the other big banks, ANZ will also be part of the Android Pay system planned for launch later this year.

"Our customers can use mobile payments no matter what phone they have, so we think it's again something that will differentiate us," ANZ products and marketing managing director Matt Boss said.

The ANZ Mobile Pay system already enables Android phones to make contactless payments.

Previously only credit cards issued directly by American Express could be used with Apple Pay in Australia.

Mastercard is not currently supported but Mr Boss said ANZ was working to include it very soon.