The change in Google Wallet comes as Google rolls out its new Android Pay service in the US. Android Pay will support contactless payments with NFC smartphones. Over the next few days, owners of eligible Android devices can begin using Android Pay by downloading the app from Google Play. Those with the Google Wallet app already installed will receive an automatic update to Android Pay, and Google also agreed to have the app pre-installed on all NFC Android phones sold by AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon in the US.
Users then can add their credit, debit or other select small business and prepaid cards to the Android Pay account and start making payments. The service works with Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover cards, issued by banks such as Bank of America, Navy Federal Credit Union, PNC, Regions Bank, USAA and U.S. Bank. Wells Fargo will be available in the next few days, Capital One and Citi are coming soon, and more new banks will be added in future. Google said the service will be available initially at over 1 million points of sale in the US, including retailers such as McDonald's, AT&T, Office Depot, Macy's Jewel-Osco and Chevron. Android Pay can also store gift cards, loyalty cards and special offers on the phone, and Google said it plans to add in-app payments to the service soon.
