Google Wallet readied for Android Pay release

The update is released by batches and will gradually reach everyone in few days time. This has come as somewhat of a surprise as many expected that the latest update in the money manager app series would be that of Android Pay, which is essentially a competitor of Apple Inc.’s (NASDAQ:AAPL) Apple Pay. Well, the predecessor was simply inconvenient compared to Apple Pay or a real-life wallet. For those eager to try it out, don’t go searching on Play Store as it is yet to be made available.

All Android devices with NFC radios running Android 4.4 KitKat or above support Android Pay at all tap and pay ready locations across the United States. After following all these steps you should open your device with the brand new Android 6.0 Marshmallow boot animation which is simply lovely.

If you thought Google’s new Google Wallet app this morning was confusing, now we know why: Google’s taken the wraps off of Android Pay, their NFC pay-by-phone service, and is rolling it out today across users and retailers nationwide. Although, Verizon wasn’t quite mentioned in the announcement. Android Pay doesn’t actually use your bank/credit card number. All the features of the old Google Wallet will be incorporated to Android Pay.

At launch, Google says Android Pay can be used at more than a million retail locations. This is thanks to Google finally and officially announcing the launch of Android Pay. Issuing banks and credit unions now include American Express, Bank of America, Discover, Navy Federal Credit Union, PNC, Regions Bank, USAA, and U.S. Bank. This will be the case regardless of the user using the app in Android or iOS.

“Android Pay also stores your gift cards, loyalty cards and special offers right on your phone”, Bhat said. It supports debit and credit cards from Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover.

It’s nearly time to start paying with your Android phone-again. More details will make way in the coming months. Some users will need to enter a pin or sign the receipt, and you will be on your way.