Google Wallet Set to Revolutionize Card Enrollment with NFC Tap Feature
Google Wallet is poised to significantly streamline the process of adding credit and debit cards, potentially bringing it on par with the convenience offered by Apple Wallet. Soon, users may be able to add NFC-enabled cards to Google Wallet with a simple tap on their smartphones. This long-awaited feature, uncovered through an APK teardown of the latest Google Play Services beta (version 25.16.33), promises a more contactless and intuitive experience. But how has it taken so long?
Currently, Google Wallet requires users to either scan their cards using the camera or manually enter the card details. The introduction of NFC-based card enrollment would add a third, potentially much faster option. The new addition would be found on the “Add payment method” screen, offering a more streamlined alternative to existing methods.
The APK teardown by Android Authority revealed code snippets suggesting that the process will involve holding the card close to the back of the device until it vibrates. While the initial NFC scan is expected to capture the card number and expiry date, users may still need to manually enter the CVV code for security reasons. Additional verification steps might also be required, depending on the card issuer.
While this technology isn't entirely new - similar features are already available in other apps - its prospective inclusion in Google Wallet is a noteworthy development. However, compatibility limitations may exist. The feature is likely tailored for EMV-compliant cards (Europay, Mastercard, and Visa), which use integrated circuit chips and support both inserted transactions and contactless NFC payments. Not all cards may be supported initially.
"Personally, I feel like this rumor seems so logical that it’s almost bizarre that it’s not already part of the official Google Wallet experience," notes Jamie, a Mobile Computing Staff Writer for TechRadar. "After all, the NFC technology employed by contactless cards, phones, and card readers operates the same way – there’s nothing stopping a phone from reading a card from a technical point of view."
The exact rollout date for the NFC card enrollment feature remains unclear, but its presence in the latest beta suggests that a wider launch might not be too distant. Be aware that features discovered in beta testing are not guaranteed to make it to the final public release.
Google Wallet's potential incorporation of NFC card enrollment directly addresses a glaring omission compared to Apple Wallet. This aligns with ongoing efforts by Google to enhance the convenience and ease of use of its mobile payment platform, seen most recently with last year's addition of passport support. Will this finally persuade some iPhone users to switch back to Android?
What are your thoughts on using NFC to add cards to your Google Wallet? Will it make you more likely to use mobile payments? Share your opinions and experiences in the comments below!
