Android Pay Launches in Japan

Another day, another advance for a “Pay.”

Today’s pay in play is Android Pay — which is launching in Japan, according to announcements out from Google via blog post.

“The next time you pop into your local “conbini”, your Android phone will be all you need to take with you. Starting today, Android Pay — the new digital wallet for Android smartphones — is available in Japan, helping you pay for things and earn loyalty points quickly and conveniently when you are on-the-go,” noted the post.

Google also notes that the service is launching with Rakuten Edy, meaning that Android Pay will be online at the over 470,000 locations in Japan that already accept Rakuten Edy eMoney .

Users in Japan that want to tap into the power of tap and pay need only download that app from the Google Pay store with any Android phone running the KitKat operating system (or any operating system that followed it). Users can create an Edy card within the app — or load one they already have into Android Pay. Top-offs can be done with a credit or debit card — or at any local store that supports Rakuten Edy top-offs.

To pay, users tap their phones on an Edy e-money reader — and it’s over. Loyalty cards can also be added to the system.

The post further notes that the Japan roll-out is just the start for upcoming announcements.

“In 2017, we plan to continue working with FeliCa Networks to support more eMoney providers and are working with payments companies like The Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ, Ltd., Visa and Mastercard in many new ways — such as helping you speed through checkout with Android Pay in your favorite apps. Stay tuned for more announcements.”

We will — and we’ll keep you posted.