What is tap and pay?

Tap and pay is a technology that lets you make contactless payments using your NFC-enabled Android device. You simply tap your phone to the cashier's terminal or reader, enter a PIN code if necessary, and you're done—no need to fumble around with credit cards. It's easy!

When paying for purchases at a supported retailer, you normally just need to bring your Android device within 1-2 inches of the payment terminal or reader for automatic payment.

Which devices support tap and pay?

Tap and pay is available on most NFC-enabled Android 4.4+ smartphones with an NFC chip inside running KitKat (API Level 19). The NFC chip is also required.

On older devices, inserting an NFC-enabled SIM card (for example into an NFC-enabled Android 4.0 phone) can enable tap and pay functionality; you don't need to upgrade your phone's firmware to use it.

Is my device compatible with tap and pay?

Most of the major smartphone manufacturers ship NFC-enabled Android smartphones with tap and pay functionality included. If you want to know if your device is compatible, check the official website of your phone manufacturer.

You may also want to consult our list of supported devices.

How do I set up tap and pay?

First, make sure that NFC is turned on in your phone's settings (usually located in the Wireless & networks section of the Settings app, or similar). If NFC is not enabled, tap and pay won't work.

Next, make sure that you have a payment card added to Android Pay . You can add credit cards or debit cards issued by any major bank (or banks) in the US.

If your card is supported, you can add it by selecting Android Pay from the main menu of your phone's Settings screen and following the on-screen instructions.

How do I use tap and pay?

In order to make a purchase using tap and pay, just select Android Pay from the main menu in your phone's Settings screen, and tap your phone on a supported payment terminal to make a purchase.

You will be prompted to enter a PIN code (if necessary), and if the transaction is successful, your device will make a subtle vibration or sound effect to notify you.

Do I need anything special to use tap and pay?

For most purchases, you only need to bring your Android device within 1-2 inches of the payment terminal or reader to initiate automatic payment. However, some terminals may ask for confirmation before completing the transaction.

What if I lose my phone? Is there a way to remotely disable tap and pay on it?

Yes, Google introduced Remote Device Management in Android 5.1 Lollipop , which allows you to manage your device remotely using the Android Device Manager (or other apps that rely on remote device management).

If your phone is lost or stolen, you can lock it remotely or even wipe the data—including the tap and pay functionality.

Why does Google want to replace my wallet?

We don't! At least not if you're already using Android Pay . Our goal is to provide more convenient payment solutions that work everywhere in the US, but don't forget that your payment cards are still available in Android Pay , and can be used with tap and pay purchases just like they're used today.