Google will extend Android Pay to the UK “in the next few months”, as the company looks to emuilate the siuccess of rival Apple Pay.
The system, which will let Android users pay for items with their phones, will be supported by a number of UK banks when it launches — with the notable exception of Barclay’s, which also failed to support Apple Pay at launch.
To start with the contactless payment system will support Mastercard and Visa credit and debit cards. The card types will work with the following banks and building societies to begin with:
‘Android users in the UK are already enjoying many great features of Android from Google Photos to Google Play, and in the next few months Android smartphones will become even more useful with the launch of Android Pay,’ said Pali Bhat, senior director of product management in the blog post.
‘We’re bringing together payment networks, banks and retailers to help you pay simply and securely.’
Support for other banks and building societies will be added at a later date, Google said.
Visa and MasterCard cardholders and Android device owners in the UK will also soon have additional safe and secure ways to make mobile payments and purchases.
Once Mastercard cardholder downloads the app and sets up an account, making a payment with Android Pay at a store is simple, safe and secure. To pay, consumers unlock their device,
hold it near a payment terminal at any location that accepts MasterCard contactless payments, and their payment will be complete. MasterCard built the foundation for secure digital transactions, so consumers can use their cards when, where and how they want
“The strength of our technology means that consumers can enjoy both security as well as simplicity. MasterCard cardholders can feel confident about using their digital MasterCard cards for everyday purchases,” said Mark Barnett, President of MasterCard UK & Ireland.
Read the official blog here
http://officialandroid.blogspot.co.uk/2016/03/tap-pay-uk.html