Google finally launched Android Pay yesterday, with the APK surfacing later on in the day. Many of us sideloaded, because we just can’t wait for Google’s slow rollout to finish up and hit our devices. As usual with Google APK’s, the folks over at Android Police have torn apart the APK to see what exactly is new in this APK or what features are there that Google didn’t tell us about. It’s a common practice, and gives everyone some insight into what Google is planning in the near future.
With Android Pay 1.0, the guys found some interesting tidbits. One being that Android Pay will be able to auto-redeem some loyalty cards when you use tap and pay. So for example if you are a member of Speedway’s Speedy Rewards, when you tap to pay, it’ll automatically redeem that Speed Rewards card for you, so you get your credit. It’s a really neat idea, and makes it even easier considering you don’t need to take out that card and then pay with your phone. It’s a one-stop shop. This can also be turned off in the settings, if you so wish.
Auto-redeeming is pretty cool. But it looks like Google’s not touting that as a feature just yet for one big reason, and that’s because there just aren’t enough loyalty card members in Android Pay just yet. Much like your credit and debit cards, I’m sure Google is working hard to get more and more partners on board. Seeing as this is their second attempt at getting mobile payments to become mainstream, they are definitely going to be working harder this go ’round. When you have Samsung Pay and Apple Pay available as well, it’s pretty necessary.
So Android Pay is here, including the app. We know Staples will be allowing Android Pay beginning next Wednesday. With many other retailers allowing it already. It’ll be interesting to see how many people opt to use their phone for paying for things. Whether it’s a Slurpee at 7-Eleven, or a box of printer paper from Office Max. With Google Wallet, you never saw anyone using it, for the most part.