Google’s recent update allows kids to use the Google Wallet for in-store payments. This feature is available in five countries: the US, the UK, Australia, Spain, and Poland.
As per Google’s new update, if you are a parent, then you can allow your children to clear in-app purchases on Google. They can also track purchases as well as manage payment cards. It ensures safe digital payments with full parental control.
Google Wallet Now Supports Kids for Payments
Google has introduced tap-to-pay for kids using Android devices. This update allows children to pay at stores using Google Wallet. However, kids need parental consent to add a payment card. Parents will receive an email whenever their child makes a transaction. This helps them monitor spending and ensure safe usage.
Kids can also store passes in Google Wallet. They can keep event tickets, library cards, and gift cards in the app. However, Google Wallet will not support online purchases for kids. This means children can only make payments in physical stores. This limitation ensures better security and control over spending.
How to Set Up Google Wallet for Kids
Parents need to set up Google Wallet on their child’s phone. The process is simple and requires parental verification. Here’s how to enable tap-to-pay for kids:
- Open the Google Wallet app on the child’s phone.
- Tap the “Add to Wallet” option at the bottom left.
- Select “Payment card” and choose “New credit or debit card.”
- The app will prompt the parent to verify their account.
- Once verified, the parent can add a payment card.
After completing these steps, kids can use Google Wallet to make payments. Parents can also manage cards through Google’s Family Link app. They can track spending, remove cards, and turn off access anytime.
Google Wallet vs. Apple Cash Family
Google’s feature is similar to Apple’s payment system for kids. Apple Cash Family allows children to use Apple Pay with parental approval. Apple users can also send and receive money through Messages or Wallet. This feature is already available for iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watches.
Google’s update helps Android users get a similar payment option. The rollout of tap-to-pay on Android gives more families digital payment choices. However, Google has not announced when more countries will get this feature.
Why This Feature Is Important
This update makes payments easier and safer for kids. Many children now have smartphones for various activities. Allowing them to make contactless payments reduces the need for cash. Parents also get better control over their children’s spending habits.
With parental supervision, kids can learn responsible money management. They can use their digital wallets for small purchases. Parents can guide them on how to spend wisely. This feature makes digital payments more accessible for young users.
Security Measures for Kids’ Payments
Google has added multiple security features to protect kids. Parental consent is required before adding a payment card. Parents get email alerts for every transaction made by their child. They can also disable payment access anytime through Family Link.
Children cannot use Google Wallet to shop online. This restriction prevents them from making unwanted digital purchases. They can only tap to pay at physical stores using their phones. This ensures they use the wallet responsibly under parental supervision.
Future Expansion and Expectations
Currently, this feature is only available in five countries. Google has not yet announced plans for global expansion. However, more countries might get access to future updates. The success of this feature could influence its wider rollout.
Google is continuously improving its payment services. The company recently introduced tap-to-pay for Fitbit Ace LTE. This was designed for kids to make digital payments easily. Expanding this to Android phones gives more children access to cashless transactions.
The Final Words
Google now lets kids use Google Wallet for in-store payments. This feature allows supervised transactions in five selected countries. Parents can track spending, remove cards, and disable access anytime.
Google ensures security by restricting online purchases. This update makes digital payments safer and more accessible for young users.
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