Earlier today, Google started pushing out an over-the-air update for its Play Services application via the Play Store. In terms of added functionality, this upgrade bumps the version number up to 8.1 and shows initial signs of support for Android Pay.
A new option can be seen in Play Services called “Tap & Pay”, which is the subject for the screenshot on the right. This will allow users to 
select between Android Pay when it launches and the already accessible Google Wallet, thereby giving users the choice of payment platform which best suits their needs.
However, since Android Pay isn’t available just yet, users won’t be able to input and save their card details, but they can still register their Google account to work with the service and choose their preferred payment method.
It’s also worth noting that Android Pay won’t be compatible with all devices as the service requires NFC to function. If you’re unaware of how the payment platform works, you simply open up the Android Pay app on your handset and tap it against a supporting terminal to make a payment.
In order to protect its customers bank accounts from malicious hackers, Android Pay gives users a virtual account number thus keeping safe their actual one from being used and falling into the wrong hands.
Google claims that the service will work with over 700,000 retailers in USA conflict free with existing debit and credit cards — so, upon release, you should just have to enter your card details, and you’ll be good to go.
Are you excited for the release of Android Pay? I know I certainly am. Be sure to let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
Come comment on this article: Google Play Services updated with support for Android Pay
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