Google Wallet to Enable Contactless Payments for Kids on Android

Google plans to launch a child-friendly version of Google Wallet in 2025, featuring enhanced parental controls and a "tap-to-pay" function, allowing for secure, parent-monitored transactions.

Google Wallet: A Kids’ Version Set for 2025 Launch

Mountain View’s tech giant, Google, has announced plans to release a Google Wallet for kids by 2025, following the positive reception of the “tap-to-pay” feature on Fitbit Ace LTE devices.

Enhanced Parental Controls

The upcoming Google Wallet for kids will allow parents to monitor and control their children’s spending by approving the credit and debit cards linked to their child’s phone and reviewing transactions through Google’s Family Link. Parents will also have the ability to approve or remove cards as needed.

Tap-to-Pay Feature at Its Core

This new feature builds upon the contactless payment functionality found in Google’s Fitbit Ace LTE activity tracker for kids. Children will be able to make payments using “tap-to-pay” authentication methods such as fingerprint, facial recognition, PIN, or password. According to 9to5Google, at launch, the service will support gift cards and event tickets, but will not include online purchases, ID cards, or health cards.

Google Follows Apple into Kids’ Payments

Apple already offers a similar feature with Apple Pay, which allows families to enable their kids to make in-store and online payments or send money via Apple Cash Family. Google’s rollout of its child payment feature is expected to begin next year for “certain Google Wallet users in multiple countries,” including the USA, as per 9to5Google, with a broader rollout planned subsequently.