Wallet
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Google Wallet will soon let you send payments as a Gmail attachment
Sending money with Google Wallet wasn't a tremendously difficult affair before today, but Mountain View's now discovered a clever new way to part you from your cash. "Over the coming months," the company will roll out a new payments feature within Gmail, letting you attach money just as you would an image or document. After clicking the new "$" symbol within the composer, you'll type in an amount and select the source of your funds. Then hit Attach, click send, and say goodbye to your Greenbacks. It's that simple. You can probably get a solid feel for how this works just from looking at the image above, but given the onslaught of announcements today, we'll forgive you for needing a more comprehensive explanation. Goog's got your back, too -- there's a demo video waiting just past the break.
Simple wallet hack uses magnetic alarms to stave off pickpockets
We just wrapped up our tour of duty at MWC dodging the notorious pickpockets in Barcelona, so perhaps that's why we're particularly intrigued by Cabel Kraft's anti-snatch wallet hack over at Hackaday. Most billfold alarms rely on a light trigger, which can be problematic if the thief squirrels away his prize for a later reveal. Kraft solves that issue by using magnetic alarms -- the sort attached to windows for break-in alerts -- that set off when the wallet is removed from the victim's pocket. He did have to remove a lot of the alarm's bulk and alter the location of the reed switch, but the setup seems otherwise uncomplicated. If you'd like to prevent your wallet from getting picked and have some soldering chops to boot, have a peek at Kraft's handiwork at the source or just view the video after the break.
Samsung Wallet looks a lot like Apple Passbook
Over at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Samsung just unveiled its "Samsung Wallet," which looks to be an exact ripoff of Apple's Passbook. Like Passbook, Wallet lets users store virtual passes such as movie tickets, boarding passes, coupons, concert tickets and more. Wallet also sends users location-based push notifications when they enter an area where a pass can be used, just like Passbook. Further, Wallet doesn't offer NFC support, just like Passbook. Instead, it relies on the user scanning a barcode on the virtual passes -- just like Passbook. Right now Samsung Wallet is only available to developers, but Samsung says the app will go live for all users in the "near future." Samsung says companies like Walgreens, Expedia, Major League Baseball Advanced Media, Belly, Booking.com, Hotels.com and Lufthansa have already signed on, according to The Verge. Sigh. [Image credit: The Verge]
Samsung announces Android Wallet app for tickets and coupons, opens API to developers
If your heart bleeds Android, but your eyes occasionally wander in the direction of Apple's Passbook, good news. Samsung has announced "Wallet," a ticketing and coupon app of its own. Unveiled at the firm's Developer Day at Mobile World Congress, Wallet comes ready with an open API to encourage adoption, with some big names already onboard including Hotels.com, Booking.com, Expedia, MLB and Lufthansa. Though this isn't the only Android solution we've heard about, in keeping with the norm, the app will be connected, and location aware. As such, the app will let you know when Wallet-friendly stores and so on are nearby, as well as continually send updates to items already stored in the app, should those booking details change. The app API is still in beta at this time, but word is that Samsung is accepting early sign-ups on its approval.
Google Drive scores multiple photo and video uploads on iOS, Wallet gets visual refresh on Android
Mountain View's just doled out an update to Google Drive on iOS, giving it the ever so slight bump to version 1.2.2 and a handful of new features. Font fanatics could see the addition of Helvetica Neue to Docs as the big ticket item in the new release, but the ability to upload multiple photos and videos otherwise headlines the batch of improvements. With the latest version, pinch to zoom now works with slides and QuickOffice users can open files and save them to Drive. In addition, spreadsheets have been freshly endowed with improvements to animations, diagonal scrolling and cell formatting for dates, decimals, currency and the like. Google Wallet on Android also received an update, but it focused on delivering a revamped UI and sundry improvements to stability and battery use. Now, the app packs navigation tabs and houses cards under the "My Wallet" section. Hit the neighboring source links to give either application a spin.
Mastercard previewing smartphone web payment system with in-person security strength
Mastercard is already a big fish in the still tiny NFC contactless payment pond, and now it wants to take that same technology to a veritable ocean -- internet sales. The plastic purveyor is tag-teaming with ING in the Netherlands for PayPass-based smartphone internet payments that would have a "comparable level of security" to bricks and mortar purchases -- by transmitting an EMV-compliant cryptogram or QR code to merchants. That would theoretically make online shopping less risky, and the system would also allow coupons and vouchers to be applied, giving a "similar user experience in both the physical and digital world." The Dutch trial has already started and will continue until early 2013, but there's no word if new users can still jump in -- check the PR after the break to read the tea leaves for yourself.
Google's own support site confirms 'Google Wallet card'
There's just something about plastic, isn't there? While Google tried to convince the world that we could all pay for everything using only our mobiles, the harsh reality is that we're still probably many, many years out from that being possible. In the interim, it looks as if Google's planning to bridge the divide with a Google Wallet card. While rumored earlier in the year, now the company's own support pages are starting to mention the heretofore unannounced product by name, noting that "all Android devices with an operating system of Android 2.3.3 or higher are eligible to download the Google Wallet app for use with the Google Wallet card." There's still no word on what the thing will look like, where you'll be able to get one, or when you'll be able to stuff it between that aging Cheesecake Factory gift card and your expired AAA membership, but you can bet we'll be keeping an eye out.
Google Wallet checkout gains support for mobile websites
It wasn't long ago that Google Wallet delved into the online payment sphere, but as of today, the Mountain View juggernaut has extended its checkout service to mobile websites. According to Google, 97 percent of mobile shoppers abandon their carts, which is primarily due to the litany of information that needs to be manually entered. Now, when you stumble upon a mobile website that supports Google Wallet checkouts, you'll merely need to click the buy button, enter your login credentials and then complete the order. The immediate downside is the paltry number of outlets that support the service: 1-800-Flowers, Rockport and Five Guys. Then again, we suppose you could have a pretty nice evening with flowers, new shoes and a couple of burgers.
Google Wallet update "coming soon," to bring support for more handsets?
The folks over at Business Insider spotted a change on the Google Wallet website today indicating that a new version of the payment system -- separate from the recently released web version -- is "coming soon." Folks itching to get in on the fresh NFC payment action can ask for an invite right now, but alas, details about the forthcoming update are scarce. We do know that upon submitting a request for the new Wallet, users are asked if they use an Android, iOS, or "other" mobile device. So, might we be in for more widespread Wallet adoption with this next iteration? Only one way to find out, so head on down to the source, sign up, and see for yourself.
The HEX Code Wallet case is nicely built, but a little too unwieldy
A few years ago, I decided to do my best to narrow down the number of things I carry around in my pockets every single day. Instead of one giant keychain with all of the keys I've ever owned on it, I cut down to two smaller keychains, one for my house and another for my car. And instead of a giant wallet that had been stretching out my back pants pockets, I instead just grabbed the insert out and stuck my ID and a few cards in there. Other than that, my iPhone 4 is the largest thing I carry around all the time. Of course, the functionality is definitely worth it, but still, I've always wondered if there was a way I could go even lighter, and combine my iPhone and wallet into one unit. The HEX Code Wallet case for the iPhone 4 or 4S is designed to do just that: It's a very well-made leather wraparound case that has a few card slots on the inside front cover, and the goal is to simply store a credit card or two and your ID, so that you don't need to carry around both a phone and a wallet when you go out. Unfortunately, the HEX Wallet isn't what I'm looking for. While it will definitely store your cards as needed, it's just too unwieldy for the simplicity that I'm after. The case is definitely well-built -- the leather on the outside is solid, if a little too rough. Inside, however, the leather that holds your cards is quite luxurious, and the plastic that holds in the iPhone is smooth and strong. I had no problem snapping my iPhone 4 into place, and while it was a little tougher to get it out, presumably you won't be removing it much once you've purchased this one. All of the buttons are, obviously, accessible, and a nice open area near the dock connector means I had no issues hooking my iPhone up to a charging cable while in the case. The biggest issue with the HEX, however, is when you start to put your cards in it. There are three slots on the inside front cover, as well as a larger pocket behind. But if you actually do use all three slots, the case becomes quite thick, and a little too unwieldy for my taste. Plus, even with my wallet insert, I still carry around 10 or 12 cards (from various customer appreciation programs and discount stores), so the HEX wouldn't work for me all of the time anyway. The other issue I have with the case is the strap that runs from top to bottom outside, and is meant to keep the case closed and shut when you're done with the iPhone. While the strap itself is nice and strong and seems well-connected to the case, I just found it in the way while I was using the case, and it felt a little awkward snapping it back around when the case was being closed. Fans of Moleskine notebooks may love this strap, but personally, it didn't work for what I wanted. And finally, though this is probably the most personal of my feedback, I just don't like the idea of a cover flap on my iPhone. It makes what is a really beautiful and simple device into something off-center and even ugly. The flap doesn't fold around to the back at all, so when you're using the iPhone with this case on, it's basically a book where you're only reading the right side of the page. I admit that this is mostly personal taste, but that's not the case for me. If you do just have a few cards you want to make sure are always with your iPhone, and you don't mind those concerns about having a cover and a strap on your case, then the HEX Wallet might be what you're looking for. At $50, it's not cheap, but the production materials aren't cheap here, either -- this definitely feels like a case that can last a while, and the black one I tested did look quite classy, especially when closed. But this case definitely isn't the one for me. Personally, I'm more excited about the possibilities of Passbook in iOS 6, and any other future technologies that allow me to use my iPhone as a credit card, identification system or even car key. Eventually, my hope is that all I'll ever have to carry around to get whatever I need will be Apple's gorgeous smartphone, and any case it needs will accent its beauty, rather than try to cover it all up.
Best Buy, Walmart, Target, more join forces for MCX mobile payment, deals provider
Mobile payments make strange bedfellows, so it's perhaps not all that surprising that a group of high profile retailers have teamed up to bring the world the Merchant Customer Exchange (MCX). The list includes such biggies as Best Buy, Walmart, Target, Sears, Lowe's and Shell, among others. The venture is set to offer up a mobile-commerce app that will provide payments and deals on "virtually any smartphone." Details are still pretty scarce, though the MCX's official site promises more info on the offering soon, including further details on deals and additional company names. In the meantime, there's a press release after the break.
Mac, iOS developer Acrylic joins Facebook design team
Sparrow isn't the only big Mac developer that's switched to a high profile project today. Mac and iOS shop Acrylic has been called away from its own projects, including the apps Pulp and Wallet, by Facebook. The company doesn't say exactly what they'll be working on, but presumably it'll be the Mac and iOS interfaces for the popular social network (which, let's be honest, can use all the help they can get). Acrylic's Dustin MacDonald says the matchup "was a natural fit." Facebook hasn't acquired any of Acrylic's projects, and those will remain available for download. Acrylic says it will post news of any updates or other work on its official blog, but helping design Facebook is probably a full-time job. Just like Sparrow, we're sorry to see a really great Mac/iOS developer move on from the projects we know and love, but we're also excited to see what work they can do on a bigger stage. [via MacStories.net]
Microsoft brings NFC payments and loyalty cards to Windows Phone 8
Well it looks like Google Wallet and Apple's Passbook have some new competition. Today at the Windows Phone Developer Summit, Microsoft shared its plans to bring NFC payments and loyalty cards to Windows Phone 8 with its very own mobile wallet feature. It's promising that it will be the "most complete wallet experience" on any phone. That of course includes support for tap-to-pay, the ability to link credit and debit cards, integration with third-party apps and, more uniquely, secure elements on the SIM card rather than the phone itself. You'll also have a PIN code option to protect all purchases on the phone. As for partners, Orange France is the only one that Microsoft has announced today, but it says that it expects to have a "good solution" with the US carrier-backed Isis initiative sometime next year (though not in time for launch). What's more, the wallet will come loaded on every Windows Phone 8 device, regardless of whether the carrier supports the SIM-based security, which will let folks use at least some of the features. Check out the latest updates from Microsoft's Windows Phone event in our liveblog!%Gallery-158715% %Gallery-158737%
Leaked Sprint slides reveal Touch Wallet NFC app, Google Wallet eyes the door
Sprint is reportedly developing its own wallet app to rival that of Google Wallet, slides leaked to Android Central reveal. Entering a four-digit code opens your handset to make payments, while tapping an NFC reader will let you directly access your credit cards. Loyalty options are also included, with logos for Starbucks, Macy's and Barnes & Noble amongst others on the slides -- although it's unclear if there's an official partnership or we're looking at placeholder images. Given that Sprint is the only carrier that uses Mountain View's digital payments system, we can't see the move going down well the next time the pair go out for dinner.
PSA: Resetting your phone risks upsetting Google Wallet, unless you do it right
Spare a thought for Google Wallet users who have learned this the hard way, but at least you won't have to fall into the same little-known trap. Essentially, if you have a Galaxy Nexus, HTC EVO 4G LTE or any other compatible handset and you perform a factory reset, there's a high chance you'll spoil the secure element that is designed to protect your NFC chip from tampering. This disables Google Wallet and it seems there's no fix once that happens, other than calling up a friendly (and hopefully interactive) customer service agent. However, there is a way to prevent it: before factory resetting, you have to go into the Google Wallet app, choose 'Menu' then 'Settings' and 'Reset Google Wallet'. There it is -- simple enough, but evidently not advertised enough by Google or the phone manufacturers themselves.
Isis partners with Austin and Salt Lake City merchants, throws John Stockton elbow at Google Wallet
Mobile payment system Isis continues to rack up passengers on its merry bandwagon, gaining support from local merchants in two cities for its NFC wallet service. The carrier-based program announced that hundreds of merchant locations in Austin, Texas and Salt Lake City, Utah are entering the Isis fold -- joining national entities such as Coca-Cola and Macy's in its initial list of partners. The selection of participating local businesses runs the gamut from cafes and restaurants to a country club and the Utah Jazz. The platform has already corralled support from handset makers, point-of-sale terminal purveyors and credit card companies such as American Express. Expect some Mortal Kombat action for your mobile purse strings between Google Wallet and Isis once the latter launches this summer. In the meantime, check out the obligatory PR after the break.
AllThingsD looks at Paypal's new payments app
AllThingsD reporter Lauren Goode spent some time shopping with both Pay with Square and PayPal's new mobile payment app. The two solutions are one of several up-and-coming mobile payment platforms competing for your virtual wallet. Overall, Goode concluded that paying with the PayPal app was "relatively quick and painless." Not surprisingly, she noted that the biggest hindrance to either solution is the lack of merchants who are willing to offer mobile payments. It's still too new of a technology to go mainstream, at least right now. You can read the full comparison at AllThingsD's website.
O2 UK launches new wallet service, helps you empty yours (video)
This may not be the UK operators first attempt at dipping its fingers logo into your pockets, but O2's new mobile wallet does bring with it some de rigeur functionality. Taking a leaf out of Barclays' book, the new app lets you send "Money Messages," essentially text-driven money transfers to any phone number. There's smart-shopping features, too, such as a barcode reader for price comparisons, and daily discount deals to stop the well from going dry too soon. Interestingly, you can also apply for a physical companion card, based on Visa's pre-pay service to bring your virtual wallet into the real world. Not an O2 customer? Doesn't matter, apparently, and the app is "compatible with the majority of smartphones as well as iPads" which we guess means iOS at least, and Android, too, judging by the phones shown in the video after the break.
Sprint LG Viper 4G goes on pre-order April 12 for $100, release date still TBA
Sprint's finally starting to get the ball rolling with its first LTE devices, announcing this morning that it's ready to begin pre-orders of the LG Viper 4G on April 12, and the next-gen goodness can be yours for $100 (after $50 mail-in rebate). The actual release date wasn't specified, but at least we know this means it's coming up much sooner rather than later. As a refresher, the Viper comes with Gingerbread, a 4-inch WVGA NOVA display, a 1.2GHz dual-core Qualcomm MSM8660 Snapdragon S3, 1GB of RAM, NFC and Google Wallet functionality, a microSD slot, 50GB cloud storage from Box and a smattering of eco-friendly features. For the full rundown, gaze upon the press release below.
Google reportedly rethinking Google Wallet strategy, may share revenue with carriers
It's not a done deal just yet, but Bloomberg is reporting that Google could be about to make some big changes to the way it does business with Google Wallet. Citing people with knowledge of the project, Bloomberg says that Google is considering sharing revenue from Google Wallet (specifically that from coupons and special offers) with carriers in an effort to boost adoption of the service, which hasn't exactly taken off as quickly as Google may have hoped (and is also seeing some increased competition). In addition to that, Google is also said to be considering a move that would side-step the carriers and focus more heavily on in-store terminals -- something Bloomberg says could involve additional hardware and software in stores that would work in conjunction with software on Google's own servers. For its part, Google didn't have much to say on the matter, simply noting in a statement that it continues to "work hard to develop Google Wallet and build the partner ecosystem to make it possible for everyone to pay with their phones and get great deals while shopping."
