Kids can use Google Wallet soon too, but there’s a catch

Paying for things with our phones has become part of our daily lives. I don’t remember the last time I physically pulled out my wallet to pay for something — I just tap with my phone and away I go. It just makes things so much easier and quicker. Now, Google wants to make that same experience easier for parents, and their kids.

Speaking to 9to5Google, Google confirmed that Google Wallet for kids will be available in 2025. The feature will require parental consent, and Google has added safeguards with this new feature that makes it easy for parents to track and manage. Parents will need to approve every credit or debit card added to their child’s phone.

Google Wallet for kids requires the Google Family Link app

Parents will be able to view recent transaction history and remotely remove a card if needed

For the feature to work, a parent or guardian has to add their child to Google’s Family Link System. The child can then use a parent or guardian’s approved debit or credit card to make tap-to-pay purchases.

Payments will require a device pin, password, or biometric authentication in order to be approved. Using the Family Link app, parents or guardians will be able to view recent transactions, and approve and remove cards remotely. Google Wallet for Kids also supports gift cards and event tickets, but cannot be used online.

The feature first debuted on the Fitbit Ace LTE, which launched earlier this year. Following positive feedback on the kid’s smartwatch, Google has decided to roll the feature out to Family Link-managed Android devices next year. Google is being cautious with its rollout, with the U.S. being one of the first countries to get access to the feature, so Google can receive feedback and tune any safety features before a wider global rollout.

Google Wallet has had quite a year of updates. The app now supports passports, driver’s licenses, health insurance information, student IDs, and many more.

Related

How I use Google Wallet to turn my phone into a digital car key

Similar to NFC credit cards, you can sync your phone to act as an easy-access car key. Here’s how.