Google has been expanding its Android Pay mobile payment system to more countries. It recently launched in Ireland and New Zealand, and now it is available in Japan.
Android Pay is launching in Japan with Rakuten Edy, and there is support for the mobile payment system at more than 470,000 locations in Japan.
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.
We are launching with Rakuten Edy, so you can use Android Pay at over 470,000 locations in Japan that accept Rakuten Edy eMoney – including shops like Bic Camera, Family Mart, Lawson, McDonald’s and Yodobashi Camera.
Android Pay’s Global Expansion
The launch of Android Pay in Japan marks another significant milestone in Google’s efforts to expand its mobile payment system globally. Android Pay has been steadily gaining traction in various countries, providing users with a convenient and secure way to make payments using their smartphones. The system leverages Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, allowing users to simply tap their phones at compatible payment terminals to complete transactions.
In addition to Ireland and New Zealand, Android Pay has also been introduced in countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Singapore. Each new market brings unique challenges and opportunities, as Google must navigate different regulatory environments and consumer preferences. However, the consistent rollout of Android Pay across diverse regions underscores Google’s commitment to making mobile payments accessible to a global audience.
Benefits of Using Android Pay
Android Pay offers several advantages for both consumers and merchants. For consumers, the primary benefit is convenience. With Android Pay, there’s no need to carry physical wallets or cards. Users can store their credit and debit card information securely on their smartphones and make payments with just a tap. This is particularly useful in countries like Japan, where mobile payments are becoming increasingly popular.
Security is another key advantage of Android Pay. The system uses tokenization to protect users’ card information. When a payment is made, Android Pay generates a unique virtual account number, ensuring that the user’s actual card details are never shared with the merchant. This reduces the risk of fraud and enhances the overall security of transactions.
For merchants, Android Pay can help streamline the checkout process and reduce transaction times. This can lead to improved customer satisfaction and potentially higher sales. Additionally, Android Pay supports loyalty programs, allowing users to earn and redeem points seamlessly during transactions. This integration can help businesses build stronger relationships with their customers and encourage repeat visits.
The collaboration with Rakuten Edy in Japan is a strategic move, as Rakuten Edy is one of the most widely used eMoney services in the country. By partnering with a well-established local player, Google can leverage Rakuten Edy’s extensive network of merchants and users to drive the adoption of Android Pay.
You can find out more information about the launch of Android Pay in Japan over at the official Google Blog at the link below.
Source Google
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