No matter how impressive Google Pay is, many of us still prefer to use Apple Pay. This contactless payment service is accepted by over 85% of retailers in the US and is often the first to support most cards and banks. But can Apple Pay be used on Android? Let’s explore.
Can You Use Apple Pay on Android?
Apple Pay is Apple’s dedicated mobile and contactless payment solution, and it’s exclusively available for Apple devices. This means you cannot use Apple Pay on Android.
To be more specific, Apple Pay only works with compatible Apple devices. Let’s take a closer look at which devices support it.
Apple Pay Compatible Devices
- iPhones: Models with Face ID or Touch ID (excluding iPhone 5s).
- iPads: iPad, iPad Air, iPad Pro, and iPad Mini models with Face ID or Touch ID.
- Apple Watch: Series 1 or newer.
- Mac Computers: Models with Touch ID or those released in 2012 or later, provided you also have an Apple Pay-enabled iPhone or Apple Watch.
Alternatives to Apple Pay on Android
While Apple Pay remains a top mobile payment solution, several excellent alternatives for Android users are worth considering. Here are the best options:
Google Pay
Google Pay is the most suitable alternative for Android users. It’s compatible with all Android phones running Android 5.0 Lollipop or higher, provided they have Google Play Services and NFC. It’s widely accepted by merchants in the US and supports a broad range of cards.
Pros:
- Works on nearly all Android devices.
- Extensive merchant acceptance in the US.
- Compatible with Wear OS smartwatches.
- User-friendly interface.
Cons:
- Still not as widely supported as Apple Pay.
- While available on iOS, contactless payments aren’t supported.
- Features are split between Google Wallet and Google Pay.
Samsung Wallet
If you own a Samsung device, Samsung Wallet is an excellent choice. It offers strong integration with Samsung phones and wearables and supports various cards. Additionally, it includes extra tools and shortcuts specific to Samsung devices.
Pros:
- Seamless integration with Samsung devices, including watches.
- Supports IDs, vaccine records, transit passes, and more.
- Intuitive and visually appealing layout.
- Syncs with your Samsung account, not just the device.
Cons:
- MST support has been discontinued, limiting its use where NFC isn’t available.
- Not available for website transactions.
- Exclusively available on Samsung devices.
Other Mobile Payment Options
While Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Wallet dominate NFC contactless payments, other mobile payment services are also worth exploring. These are ideal for transfers, online purchases, or in-store payments via QR codes. Some popular options include:
- PayPal
- Cash App
- Venmo
- Zelle
FAQ’s
Can I use Apple Pay on an Android phone?
No, Apple Pay is exclusively available for Apple devices like iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches, and certain Mac computers. Android phones do not support Apple Pay.
What’s the best alternative to Apple Pay for Android users?
The best alternative for Android users is Google Pay. It’s compatible with almost all Android phones running Android 5.0 or later and supports NFC contactless payments. It’s widely accepted by merchants in the US and works with various cards.
How does Google Pay compare to Apple Pay?
Google Pay is a strong alternative, offering broad compatibility with Android devices and wide acceptance at US retailers. However, Apple Pay often supports cards and banks faster, and its integration with Apple devices is more seamless.
Is Samsung Wallet a good choice for Samsung users?
Yes, Samsung Wallet is a great option for Samsung device owners. It integrates deeply with Samsung phones and watches, offers support for IDs, transit passes, and vaccine records, and features a sleek interface. However, it’s only available for Samsung devices.
Why is Apple Pay not supported on Android?
Apple Pay is designed to work exclusively within Apple’s ecosystem, ensuring tight integration with its devices and software. This exclusivity also helps Apple maintain its standards for security and user experience.
Can Android users pay with an Apple Watch linked to Apple Pay?
No, Apple Watches require an iPhone for setup and functionality. Therefore, you cannot use an Apple Watch with Apple Pay if you only own an Android phone.
Conclusion
While Apple Pay remains a top choice for seamless and secure contactless payments, it’s exclusively available for Apple devices. Fortunately, Android users have excellent alternatives like Google Pay and Samsung Wallet, which offer robust features and wide merchant acceptance. Whether you choose these or other options like PayPal or Venmo, there are plenty of ways to enjoy hassle-free mobile payments on Android.