Get ready to start paying for things with a swipe of your phone, Android users. Google on Thursday started rolling out Android Pay.
The Web giant said it plans to "gradually" roll out the new mobile payment option at more than one million locations across the U.S. Look for it at stores like Aeropostale, American Eagle Outfitters, Babies "R" Us, BJ's Wholesale Club, Bloomingdales, GameStop, Jamba Juice, Macy's, Office Depot, Panera Bread, Petco, Rite Aid, Sports Authority, Staples, Subway, Walgreens, Toys "R" Us, and Whole Foods.
Android Pay works with all NFC-enabled Android devices running KitKat 4.4. and above, regardless of your carrier. The system supports credit and debit cards issued by "many of the most popular U.S. banks and credit unions," including American Express, Bank of America, Discover, Navy Federal Credit Union, PNC, Regions Bank, USAA, and U.S. Bank. Google said it plans to support Citi and Wells Fargo-issued cards "in the next few days;" support for Capital One is coming soon as well.
"We will continue to add even more features, banks, and store locations in the coming months, making it even easier to pay with your Android phone," Google said. Later this year, for instance, you will be able to use Android Pay for in-app purchases.
Besides letting you pay for items with your phone, Android Pay also stores your gift cards, loyalty cards, and special offers.
For the security conscious, know that when you use Android Pay your real credit or debit card number isn't sent with your payment. Instead, the system uses a virtual account number for an extra layer of security. As soon as you make a purchase, you'll get a confirmation showing where the transaction happened. If your phone is lost or stolen, use Android Device Manager to lock it, set a new password, or wipe your personal information.
Existing Google Wallet users can access Android Pay by updating the Wallet app. New users will have to wait for a few days until Android Pay is available for download in Google Play. Android Pay will also come pre-installed on new NFC-enabled Android phones from AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon.
Google Wallet is not going away with the launch of Android Pay. In fact, Google just released a new Google Wallet app in the Play store today. Why have two services? Google Wallet will remain largely to let people keep balances and send money to one another.
Android Pay will go up against Apple Pay, which launched about a year ago. It works with Apple's newer iPhone 6 lineup, as well as the Apple Watch and the iPad for in-app purchases.
Source: pcmag.com
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