Google's second attempt at a mobile payment app launched just two short weeks ago, but now Android Pay is officially available in the Google Play Store for all Android devices.
Not to be confused with Google Wallet (the previous payment system from Google), Android Pay is a NFC-based payment system that allows users to make payments on digital goods as well as in-store purchases at participating retailers.
The tap-to-pay app is compatible with all NFC-enabled Android devices that run on the operating system KitKat 4.4 or higher. Android Pay is supported by the four major payment networks in the U.S – American Express, MasterCard, Visa and Discover – along with major banks like Navy Federal Credit Union, PNC, Regions Bank, USAA, U.S. Bank and Wells Fargo.
Users who previously had Google Wallet were able to shift over to new Android Pay via a Wallet app update, which made many users confused over what is the difference between the two mobile payment services.
Now users can download Android Pay directly from the Play Store, eliminating confusion so they can tap-to-pay when at the register by just unlocking their smartphone and placing it near the payment terminal.
Android Pay and Google Wallet will now be two separate apps with separate functions. Google Wallet will now be used to send money to contacts instead of paying for items.
Android Pay is available to download for free.
