On Thursday morning, Google began rolling out its second updated mobile wallet and payment service app, Android Pay. According to a press release, the upcoming app will work in conjunction with all NFC-enabled Android devices that are running KitKat 4.4 or higher, at any tap-and-pay location across the U.S.
The app will support credit and debit cards from American Express, Discover, MasterCard and Visa — also running with any mobile carrier you might use. Android Pay will work with major U.S. banks and credit unions, including American Express, Bank of America, Discover, Navy Federal Credit Union, PNC, Regional Bank, USAA and U.S. Bank. Citi Bank, Wells Fargo and Capital One will be coming soon as well.
Google plans to update its Google Wallet app with Android Pay, ultimately turning the original into a Venmo-like payment app between family and friends. All loyalty programs, gift cards and offers previously stored in Google Wallet will now be moved to Android Pay.
NFC capabilities allow you to make contactless payments at all participating retailers. The list doesn't look too different from the ones at Apple Pay or Samsung Pay, but Google predicts an expansion here as well:
For now, the app will be limited to tap-and-pay purchases at brick-and-mortar stores only — but it is getting ready to launch a side of the platform that allows customers to buy stuff within the Android apps later this year.
The security features that come with Android Pay are also a big selling point. The announcement mentions the support of "industry standard tokenization," which basically uses a virtual account number in lieu of your actual debit or credit card number to provide extra security. The app also notifies you immediately whether a purchase did or didn't take place. Additionally, the Android Device Manager helps protect all your data in case of theft.
Google is getting major support from Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile — all of which will preload their smartphones (Android Lollipop and up) with Android Pay. Retail workers are also being trained to help customers get the hang of the app upon purchasing a new phone.
