Google Pay is a mobile payment app that allows you to pay for products online or through offline payment. You can also exchange money with others, track personal expenses, add credit cards, and manage your money.
Although Google designed the app as the default payment system on Android phones, iPhone owners can use the service as well, though without the tap-to-pay function they get from Apple Pay. We will take a look at how to use Google Pay with both Android and iPhone.
Set up Google Pay from the web
To set up Google Pay, you need to sign in to your Google account on the mobile app or website. If you have financial information saved with Chrome’s AutoFill feature, these credit and debit cards will automatically transfer to Google Pay. If you do not have saving information, you will need to enter it manually during the configuration process.
On the website, click the Add button to enter a payment method. Enter your credit card or account information, name and billing address. Click Save, then select Done. If financial information has been transferred, you must enter the security code on the back of the card before it can be activated for offline payment.
The service will then display the payment method you have entered. You can remove or edit the existing method at any time, or add new payment methods. Select the Add payment method link to add additional modes.
You can now add a credit card or other account, a Google Store funding card, a PayPal account, or a bank account. Choose one of these additional methods if you wish and then follow the steps to link it to Google Pay.
Set up Google Pay From Android App
Google Pay already comes with most Android devices, so you shouldn’t have to download and install it manually. However, Google Pay is also in the midst of moving to a new app, so there is currently an old version that is currently stable and a new version that is still in early reach. As the old version starts cutting off support for some features, be sure to download the latest releases, or even both versions.
If you are still using the older version of Google Pay, open the app and tap on the start up button. The next screen gives you the option to get the new Google Pay app or install the existing one. If you prefer to stick to the stable version, tap on the Set it button.
If you’ve already sent a credit or debit card through the Google Pay website, or if your information is stored in Chrome, the app shows you your usual payment methods. If not, you are encouraged to add a card. You can then add additional cards by tapping on them Add a new card entry. You can then take a picture of the card or add it manually.
If you want the new Google Pay app, download it from Google Play or click Get the new Google Pay on the home screen of the old app. Once inside the app, make sure you’re signed in with your Google account. You will then be prompted to link the app to your phone number via text code.
On the Privacy Settings screen, tap Next. Choose if you want to find out with friends so they can send you payments. Decide if you want to get cash prizes and discounts back when you pay for something through Google Pay.
Lastly, find out if you want to turn personalization for Google Pay, which saves your business and other information in your Google account. You can turn this option on or off or turn it on and ask Google to ask you about it in another three months.
After the initial setup, you will be taken to the app’s payment screen, where you can read about various options and manage your account.
Set up Google Pay on iPhone
If you’re using an iPhone, download the new Google Pay app from the App Store. From the app’s start screen, sign in with your Google account, if necessary, or confirm the account listed. Tap Go ahead and enter your phone number, then confirm the code that was texted to you.
You are then prompted to set your privacy preferences. Choose whether you want friends to find you when they search for your number. Decide if you want to earn cash and discounts. Determine if you want to convert personalization for Google Pay.
At the end, the app asks if you want to use Face ID or Touch ID to verify your Google Pay payments. You will then be taken to the Payment screen, where you can read about various app options and manage your account.
How to use Google Pay
Using Google Pay on Android
Google Pay should be the default payment system for most Android devices, though you may need to set up Google Pay manually as is usual on Samsung phones with Samsung Pay.
Open the phone’s Settings and open the Apps (or Apps & Notifications) menu. Tap on the three-dot icon and select Default Apps, then select the Tap and pay option and send it to Google Pay (or G Pay), if it is not already there. Google Pay will then appear as the payment system when needed.
To pay for something in a store that supports Google Pay, keep your phone close to the payment reader and verify the transaction with your password, PIN, fingerprint, or face. To pay for an item within an app or website, select the item to purchase and tap the Google Pay button. Enter your password, PIN, or other authentication to verify the transaction.
Using Google Pay on iPhone
Using Google Pay on an iPhone is more limited than on an Android device. You can’t pay for products in a brick-and-mortar store or within mobile apps and websites like with Apple Pay. But you can use it with websites that work through your Google account, such as Google Play. In this case, select your item and pay for it, and it will take the money from your Google Pay account.
Cashback Earnings and Prizes
On Android or iOS, you can take advantage of cashback prizes and other offers if you choose to earn cash and discounts through the settlement process. In the new Google Pay app, tap the Explore icon. You can scan product code or QR code to see any benefits on it. Scroll down the Explore screen to see other offers.
Add or ask for money
To send money to someone from the Android or iOS app, go to the Payment screen and tap on the Find paid people connection. Allow Google Pay to reach your contacts, then invite or select the person you want to pay. Tap on the Pay button, then enter the amount. You can also add a note to the transaction. Follow the on-screen steps to submit the payment.
You can also claim money from someone by tapping Find paid people no Pay a friend or group at the Pay screen. Invite or select the friend you want to pay for. Tap the Apply button and enter the amount. You can also add a note before completing the application. Once the person on the other end approves the request, the money will be added to your Google Pay account.