Google Wallet appears to be preparing QR-code payments abroad, but the only country named so far is Singapore, and Google has not confirmed anything.
Google appears to be working on a way for Google Wallet users to pay by scanning QR codes while traveling overseas. Android Authority reported it on Tuesday, Oct. 27. The report is based on code found in a recent update to the Android app. Google has not announced the feature.
The code points to a setting called "Overseas QR payments." It would turn on automatically when your phone detects that you are in a supported region. A QR code is the square pattern many shops display so you can scan it with your phone to pay. The feature would run on Alipay Plus, a network that links with local merchant payment systems in Southeast Asia. It is the international counterpart to China's Alipay wallet.
Google's support page says the feature works in "any of the supported destinations listed above," but it names only Singapore. Android Authority said support could grow to Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines. Google has given no date. PYMNTS asked Google for comment and had not heard back.
Because the report rests on app code, details could change or the feature might never ship. For travelers, it could make paying abroad easier. The sensible move is to wait for Google to confirm which countries are covered.
Do not plan a trip around this yet; wait for Google to confirm the feature and the list of countries.
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