This open platform uses a system-level lockscreen as its security, not a second payment ID for authentication. This makes Android Pay a little bit faster with no queue displeasing 'Let me redo it' when the fingerprint sensor doesn't work.

That's why enabling a phone's lockscreen is a must. Its tap-to-pay method of completing a transaction doesn't require that hit-or-miss fingerprint on smartphones. Only, its rules are more user-friendly than what's found on an Apple Pay-enabled iPhone. Passwords aren't a hindranceĪndroid Pay requires a lockscreen password, whether it's a pattern, pin or face unlock. On an iPhone 6, I often need to get out my loyalty card or recite my phone number, even if I'm paying with Apple Pay. That's going to be an incentive, especially when I'm at local retailers. It's an idea the iPhone's Passbook app doesn't fulfill nearly as well, often turning to little-used and more cumbersome QR codes. Google is integrating retailers' loyalty programs right into Android Pay and says this feature is going to be bigger than just soda machines. Who turns down an earned Coke and doesn't enjoy it? What's different? Among the card options is the ability to use M圜okeRewards points to pay for the soda (or a healthier beverage like water). I tapped my virtual card on the phone to pay, and the plastic bottle rolled out of the machine. I held the phone to the machine's NFC reader, and a stacked credit and debit card interface popped up automatically, looking almost identical to Apple Pay's design.

Android Pay, already loaded on my Nexus 6 at a special Coke vending machine, used the built-in NFC chip that's now common among Google-powered phones.

Android version of apple pay