Google Wallet and Googler Pay users are being urged to check their settings after a tech expert revealed several little-known features that could make paying online and in shops faster, easier and more secure.
While millions of Britons now tap their phones instead of reaching for a bank card, many Android users only use a fraction of what Google's digital wallet can do.
From faster online checkouts to extra security features and virtual card numbers on eligible cards, there are several tools built into Google Wallet that many people may never have noticed.
Aleksha McLoughlin, tech expert at Talkmobile, said: "For most Android users, Google Wallet is one of the quickest and easiest ways to pay in-store and online. Once it's set up, it can replace your physical bank card for many everyday purchases while also offering extra security features."
What's the difference between Google Pay and Google Wallet?
Generally, Google Pay is used to send and receive money between people, sync and view activity on credit / debit cards, and take advantage of coupon offers.
Google Wallet is used to store credit cards, loyalty cards, etc., and can be used to pay at stores that accept Google Pay.
Other items, like tickets, etc., can be downloaded and accessed via the app for those services that provide the option to add something to Google Wallet. You generally will see that option at checkout to add a completed purchase to Google Wallet, or in a confirmation email, vendors will sometimes have an option to add the ticket to Google Wallet if it doesn't happen automatically.
How to set up Google Wallet
Getting started only takes a few minutes.
Users need to:
- Download or open the Google Wallet app on their Android phone
- Sign in with their Google account
- Set up a secure screen lock using a PIN, fingerprint or face unlock
- Tap Add to Wallet and choose Payment card
- Scan their debit or credit card, or enter the details manually
- Complete any identity checks required by their bank
Once verified, the card is ready to use anywhere Google Wallet is accepted.
Paying in shops
Google Wallet uses Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, allowing compatible Android phones to communicate securely with contactless payment terminals.
There's normally no need to open the app before paying.
Users simply unlock their phone and hold the back of the handset near the card reader until the payment is confirmed.
Shopping online
Many retailers and apps now offer a Google Pay button at checkout.
Instead of manually entering card numbers, addresses and payment details, shoppers can complete purchases using the payment cards already stored in Google Wallet, making checkout significantly quicker.
Five Google Wallet features many people don't know about
Virtual card numbers
For eligible payment cards, Google Wallet can use a virtual card number instead of sharing the real card details with retailers during online transactions.
This helps reduce the amount of personal payment information shared when shopping online. Availability depends on the bank or card provider.
Extra security
Google Wallet requires users to authenticate themselves using their phone's existing security settings, such as fingerprint recognition, facial recognition or a PIN, before sensitive information or payments can be accessed.
Quick shortcuts
Long-pressing the Google Wallet app icon on many Android phones opens shortcuts to commonly used features, helping users reach tickets, passes or payment options more quickly.
View recent transactions
Google Wallet can display recent activity for supported cards, allowing users to check purchases without opening their banking app. Available features vary depending on the card issuer.
Store more than bank cards
Many users don't realise Google Wallet can also hold loyalty cards, boarding passes, event tickets and some digital keys, helping keep everyday essentials together in one app.
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It's about more than contactless payments
Aleksha said many people simply use Google Wallet to tap and pay without exploring its wider features.
She added: "Most people only use Google Wallet for contactless payments, but there are several useful tools built in that can improve security and speed up everyday transactions. Features like virtual card numbers, where available, and keeping loyalty cards and tickets in one place can make a real difference for frequent shoppers and travellers."
As more retailers embrace digital payments, making the most of Google Wallet's built-in features could help Android users save time at the checkout while adding another layer of protection to everyday spending.
