Samsung takes on Apple Card with 5% Galaxy cash back

Samsung has launched its first U.S. credit card, the Samsung Galaxy Card, in partnership with Barclays — and it is clearly aimed at the Apple Card.

The Visa card has no annual fee and includes financing options for Samsung Galaxy devices bought through Samsung, similar to Apple’s installment plans for its own hardware. Cardholders get 5% cash rewards on in-store and online purchases made directly from Samsung in the U.S., 3% on purchases made with Samsung Wallet, 2% on streaming services including Netflix, Disney+, and Spotify, and 1% on everything else.

Samsung is also offering $200 in cash rewards to new users who spend $2,000 within the first 90 days of opening an account. Cardholders also get a 20% discount on Samsung VIP Advantage membership when paying with the Galaxy Card.

That puts the rewards structure ahead of the current Apple Card on paper. Apple’s card offers 3% cash back on Apple purchases and select merchants, 2% on Apple Pay purchases, and 1% on other spending.

Like Apple’s card, Samsung’s version is built around its wallet app rather than a traditional banking app. The card is integrated directly into Samsung Wallet for account management, and Barclays says it is the company’s first digital wallet-native credit card. After approval, users can start using it immediately in Samsung Wallet.

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Samsung will also ship a physical card: a black metal design that contrasts with Apple Card’s white titanium finish. Applications open July 22 online and in Samsung retail stores, the same day as Samsung’s Unpacked event, where the company is expected to unveil its latest Galaxy foldables.

The launch also lands as Apple’s card partnership changes hands. Goldman Sachs is exiting the Apple Card deal, and JPMorgan Chase is set to take over as issuer in a transition running through 2027.