Google Wallet Adding NFC Card Adding System for Android

Google is currently developing a new method to make adding cards to Google Wallet on your Android device more convenient than ever before.

A recent discovery in the code of the latest Google Play Services beta (version 25.16.33) indicates that Google is exploring a way to add debit and credit cards to Google Wallet with a simple tap.

Currently, users have to scan a new card using their Android phone’s camera or enter the details manually, which can be a time-consuming process.

Tap to Add for Google Wallet

Android Authority found references to “nfc add a card” and “nfc tap card details” in the code, along with the instruction to “Hold your card close to the back of your device until it vibrates.” This seems to be related to Google Wallet’s ‘Add payment method’ screen.

NFC, which stands for Near Field Communication, is the technology that enables tap-to-pay functionality on smartphones in stores. This new method would allow users to tap card details onto their phones.

All Tapped Out

While users will likely still need to provide the three-digit CVV code for security purposes and undergo a verification process with their bank, such as receiving a text message code or app prompt, the ability to add a card with a simple tap is a significant improvement over the current methods.

It is surprising that neither Google nor Apple has implemented this feature earlier, considering its convenience. However, there may be limitations in compatibility with certain debit or credit cards that do not provide basic card information in an NFC-friendly format.

Although there is no specific timeline for the introduction of this tap-to-add feature to Google Wallet, it is expected to be available soon.