Android Pay signs up “millions” of users, readies loyalty programs

Android Money2020
PAY RISE: Sridhar Ramaswamy speaking about Android Pay take-up at Money20/20

Android Pay has signed up “millions” of users since its launch in the US in September 2015, Google’s Sridhar Ramaswamy has told attendees during his keynote at Money20/20. He also announced that single tap loyalty rewards are set to go live at NFC-enabled Coke vending machines in the next “few weeks”.

“Since our launch just a few weeks ago, we’ve seen millions of users set up Android Pay and the majority — over 60% — are brand new, not just Google Wallet users,” the senior vice president of ads and commerce said during his presentation.

“Even with the great start, we are pushing to educate consumers even more about Android Pay. We’ve launched a major marketing effort with American Express, MasterCard, Visa and all of our issuing bank partners to drive awareness and activation and we’re working with AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon Wireless to ensure that customers are set up to walk out paying with their new Android device.”

“We didn’t want to stop at credit and debit cards,” Ramaswamy continued. “We want to embrace all of the private label cards, the loyalty cards, gift cards and coupons that are such a big part of the retail experience today. With just one tap, you can use a gift card or collect loyalty points no matter which credit or debit card you’re using to pay.

“In the next few weeks, we’re launching a new feature in collaboration with Coke to send your loyalty data right along with your payment in a single tap. We think this is going to be a big benefit for both consumers and retailers. I would like to urge all of you to bring your loyalty programmes to Android Pay.”

Holiday season

“There are over a million locations across the United States that already accept Android Pay with more being added everyday,” Ramaswamy said. “Already this holiday season, 40% of the people say that they are likely to use their smartphone to pay. In light of the growing activity, we’re launching a special holiday promotion for Android Pay users.

“As you’re shopping for family and friends this holiday season, you can also make this season a little bit brighter for those in need. For every Android Pay purchase made this holiday, Google will donate a dollar up to a million dollars of total donation and because everybody loves a good bargain, we’re going to double our contribution for all taps made on Black Friday.”

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