Google is making it easier for families to introduce kids to digital payments, with plans to extend Google Wallet’s in-store tap-to-pay feature to supervised kids’ accounts. Starting next year, kids using Family Link-managed Android devices can use Google Wallet in-store, though online purchases will remain restricted. Building on the success of tap-to-pay on the Fitbit Ace LTE app, this feature is in response to the growing interest in secure, supervised financial features for youngsters.

Google Wallet for kids

Kids under the Family Link umbrella can install Google Wallet on their Android devices (with the assistance of their elders) to access NFC tap-to-pay payments. Google has added layers of authentication for security—kids will need a PIN, password, fingerprint, or facial recognition to complete every transaction. However, kids won’t be able to utilise cards saved in Google Wallet for online payments in any other context.

Google Wallet for Kids also offers gift cards and event tickets, making booking tickets for your kids’ favourite popstar easier. If you’re an American. Certain passes like IDs and health cards won’t be available initially, though it’s hard not to be intrigued by the potential. Digitally stored passes have been a tech dream for years, this might create an avenue for them to become more widespread.

Parents remain in control of the digital wallet setup through Family Link. Before a child can add a payment or card, parents must approve it. They can also review transaction histories, manage cards remotely, and block passes when necessary. This control ensures parents can supervise spending and address any issues quickly.

Much of the software infrastructure has already been built with the Fitbit Ace LTE kids fitness app. The success of tap-to-pay on this app gave Google the confidence that these payment models for kids are not only necessary but lucrative. Inital rollout will begin next year with a handful of countries, with worldwide expansion following soon after.