Google Wallet lets you pay for things with your phone instead of pulling out a credit card. Originally, Google’s innovation only worked with Citibank accounts, MasterCards and a certain Sprint phones. Now, Google has updated Wallet to allow people to use it with any credit card or debit card. The only devices that support Google Wallet are of just six of Sprint’s phones (or Google’s Nexus 7 tablet, but pulling out a tablet at a cash register seems more difficult than just using a credit card.).
“Today we’re releasing a new, cloud-based version of the Google Wallet app that supports all credit and debit cards from Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover,” Google said in a blog post. “Now, you can use any card when you shop in-store or online with Google Wallet.” To enter a new card, simply launch the application and type in your credit card number. A transaction record will be stored on the phone and in Google’s online wallet interface.
Google already has some security measures in place in case your phone or tablet is lost or stolen. “We take security very seriously and have always had a dedicated Google Wallet PIN to prevent others from making payments with your Google Wallet,” the company said. ” And as always, we encourage Google Wallet customers to set up the phone’s screen lock — as an extra layer of protection.” However, Google has added a brand new security feature that allows you to remotely disable your device so that even with a pin your phone or tablet can’t be used to make a purchase.
