Predicting the adoption of mobile payment applications during the COVID-19 pandemic

PurposeThis study aims to analyse the adoption of mobile payment applications during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic using the technology acceptance model (TAM) and Technology Readiness Index (TRI).Design/methodology/approachThe data were collected from 400 mobile payment application users in Indonesia. The structural equation model–partial least square (SEM-PLS) analysis was conducted to analyse the relationship between variables and test a series of hypotheses.FindingsTRI constructs affect perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use, with the exception of discomfort which has no significant effect on the perceived usefulness. In addition, attitude is influenced by two main TAM variables: perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use. Meanwhile, the intention to use mobile payment applications is influenced by attitude.Research limitations/implicationsThis study will assist mobile payment application service providers and policymakers in planning services and increasing the adoption of mobile payment applications during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study will also add the existing knowledge about the mobile payment applications literature in the context of a pandemic.Originality/valueThis study is the first to empirically employ the TAM and TRI in analysing the adoption of mobile payment applications during the COVID-19 pandemic.