Hi GrSunshine :-)
welcome to this Apple (user-to-user) Community!
Re: "Apple Pay Touch ID disappears on MacBook Air websites:
When using Apple Pay on my MacBook Air with some companies it works and with others when I put my finger on to pay it stays active for about half a second then the 'circle' just disappears"
Your post says you are using MacOS 26.3. Seems keeping MacOS updated to the latest version can often sidestep issues that arise.
What's new in the updates for macOS Tahoe 26 - Apple Support
Eg: says there have been a few updates since then:
MacOS updates usually contain bug-fixes, and / or security updates.
You can check for updates:
Apple menu > System Settings > General > Software Updates
Note: If you choose to update MacOS, is wise to back-up your Mac first.
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Else if your MacOS is actually up-to-date already:
Sometimes, restarting your Mac (Apple menu >Restart) will restore order if something is not working as expected. Eg: A restart deletes temporary files, re-establishes connections, may update any recent setting or other changes, and more.
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If nothing above has helped restore Touch ID workability for Apple Pay:
Then it might be worth double-checking the method you use, or the settings you have in place.
Make purchases using Apple Pay - Apple Support
Eg: says:
"How to use Apple Pay online or in apps
You can use Apple Pay to pay online or in apps when you see Apple Pay as a payment option.2,3
- Tap the Apple Pay button or choose Apple Pay as your payment method.
- To use a payment method different from your default card, tap Other Cards & Pay Later Options or Change Payment Method.
- If necessary, enter your billing, shipping and contact information.
- Confirm the payment.
- Mac with Touch ID: Place your finger on Touch ID.
- Mac without Touch ID: Confirm the payment on your Bluetooth-connected iPhone or Apple Watch. Make sure you’ve signed in to the same Apple Account on all devices.
5When your payment is successful, you'll see Done and a tick on the screen."
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Re: "It's not obscure sites either, most are big companies or stores where I have previously used . AP."
We can't guess which browser you are using ... some of us have more than one (Eg Safari + Firefox) to cater for payment on particular sites.
For smooth operation of their websites, some merchants may have preferred browsers that are other than the one you use. You can usually check on a website itself (via help / support) which browsers are supported.
(Changes can also occur when the site is updated and / or more security is added, so a site where Apple Pay worked on a browser earlier may no longer work well on that browser.)
The above linked article also give tips on using third-party (non-Apple) browsers. Scroll to: "How to use Apple Pay by scanning a code"
and
If applicable:
2,3 Article also lists (at very bottom) tips for China mainland and Italy
and
"Apple Pay is not available in all markets".
You can View Apple Pay countries and regions.
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If more help is needed: Below is a link to the Apple Pay Support Website (info. / support / contact options etc.)
Apple Pay - Official Apple Support
