What is Android Pay? Your Questions Answered

What is Android Pay? Your Questions Answered
Android Pay is Google’s mobile wallet technology, and one of several emerging payment apps that have recently been introduced in Australia.
by Square Sep 26, 2016 — 3 min read
What is Android Pay? Your Questions Answered

You may have noticed people in shops, markets and cafes holding their smartphones at checkout, using new payment technologies like Google Pay to make purchases. These new systems are using a contactless transaction called near field communication (NFC) to transmit information from the mobile device to a payment reader. They’re also the newest, fastest and most secure way to pay.

What is Google Pay?

Google Pay is Google’s mobile wallet technology, and one of several emerging payment apps that have recently been introduced in Australia (other popular examples include Apple Pay and Samsung Pay).

Rather than taking their wallet out of their pocket, customers can use a device that’s likely already in their hand. NFC mobile payments are just as fast, and in some cases faster, than tap-and-go cards. The transaction is processed on the spot — unlike credit or debit cards — which can take a few additional seconds while the chip and card are verified by the bank.

Here’s what you should know about Google Pay:

How can my business accept Google Pay?

To accept Google Pay, your business will need a contactless payment reader, or EFTPOS (electronic funds transfer at point of sale) machine. Google Pay’s website lists some of the major retailers around Australia that are accepting contactless pay, such as Bing Lee, Coles, Domino’s, Freedom, Myer and many more. You don’t need to be a large business to accept Google Pay — businesses of all sizes can do it with Square Reader (which retails for $65, and is available here).

Which smartphones can use Google Pay?

Google Pay is compatible with most newer Android smartphones. The Square Reader is also compatible with most Android devices, as long as you’re running Google Android 4.0 or later, have location services enabled, and also have access to Google Play. Check this list to see which Android devices are compatible.

How do I get set up with Google Pay?

If you’re keen to start paying with Google Pay, the first thing you’ll need to do is find the app on your smartphone. If it isn’t already pre-loaded, simply download it from Google Play. Next, you’ll need to add a credit card associated with your Google account by simply confirming a few details. You can also add a new credit card by snapping a picture of it. Then, to get going, you simply unlock your phone.

If you’re a business owner, it’s even simpler to start accepting Google Pay. Just order the Square Reader online. It connects to your Android device using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology, so setup is simple and only takes a few moments. You can also learn more about how to start accepting NFC contactless payments here.

Which banks accept Google Pay?

A growing list of banks and credit card brands are allowing their customers to accept Google Pay in Australia. American Express-issued cards, and cards issued by ANZ, Bendigo Bank, Macquarie Bank and ING, are a small selection from the list. The Google Pay website has a full list of banks that currently accept this payment method.

How do I pay with Google Pay?

To make a purchase with Google Pay, simply open the app on your smartphone (this will require you to have a secure lock screen) and complete the transaction by holding or tapping your device over the eftpos machine. The transaction happens instantly, and you’ll hear a beep when it’s been approved.

Is Google Pay safe?

The new range of mobile wallets currently entering the market are considered much more secure than many other types of card payments, and they’re a lot more convenient. Whenever you make a purchase, a payment confirmation pops up on your phone along with the merchant’s name and number. This let’s you know what transaction occurred and where it took place — making it easy to identify any fraudulent charges. And in case of a theft or loss, you can simply lock your device with Android Device Manager, which also allows you to update your password and delete any personal information.

What’s the difference between Google Pay and Apple Pay?

Apple Pay is Apple’s mobile wallet option, meaning it won’t work on an Android Device. You’ll need an iPhone 6 (or Plus), an iPhone 6S (or Plus) or an Apple Watch to use Apple Pay.

Both Google Pay and Apple Pay use NFC (near field communication) technology to process transactions. They’re both used by hovering (or “tapping”) your phone above the NFC-enabled payments reader while your finger is on the home button (the “Touch ID” button in the case of Apple Pay). You can also use both Google Pay and Apple Pay to make online payments while you’re in apps.

What’s the difference between Android Pay and Samsung Pay?

Samsung Pay works on newer models of Samsung Galaxy devices. Samsung Pay also works on NFC contactless readers such as the new Square contactless and chip reader. It uses a slightly different system than Google Pay or Apple Pay. In order to trigger a contactless payment with Samsung Pay, you’ll need to swipe up from the home screen.

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