# Google Wallet and Tap-to-Pay Coming to Family Link Devices: A New Era of Digital Payments for Kids
In an exciting update for households, **Google** has revealed plans to integrate **Google Wallet** and **tap-to-pay** capabilities into **Family Link** devices starting in 2025. Initially launched on the **Fitbit Ace LTE** smartwatch, this feature will enable children to perform contactless transactions under the watchful eye of their parents, signaling a new chapter in digital payments for young users.
## What You Need to Know
– **Google Wallet** and **tap-to-pay** functionality will be rolled out on Family Link devices in 2025.
– Kids will be able to utilize cards and passes on their devices, with parental guidance.
– Originally debuted on the **Fitbit Ace LTE** smartwatch, this capability will soon extend to Android devices governed by Family Link.
## The Evolution of Google Wallet for Kids
The launch of **Google Wallet** tailored for children responds to long-standing requests and is on the verge of realization. It was first popularized by the **Fitbit Ace LTE**, a smartwatch created specifically for kids. This device allowed youngsters to conduct contactless payments, receiving favorable reviews from both parents and kids alike. Now, Google is broadening this capability to include a wider array of devices.
Beginning in 2025, kids using Android devices supervised by **Family Link** will have the option to download the Google Wallet app. This will facilitate **in-store purchases** via the **tap-to-pay** feature, complemented by parental controls for safe and responsible usage.
## Key Features and Parental Controls
The version of **Google Wallet** aimed at children will incorporate various protective measures to ensure parents oversee their child’s expenditures. Here are some important features:
1. **In-Store Purchases Only**: Children will be permitted to make **in-store purchases** using the tap-to-pay option, but **online payments** will not be allowed. This restriction prevents kids from making unauthorized internet purchases.
2. **Parental Approval for Cards**: Before children can access a credit or debit card through Google Wallet, parents must **approve** it. This guarantees that only sanctioned payment methods are accessible to the child.
3. **Authentication Required**: Similar to the full version of Google Wallet, kids must **authenticate** their contactless transactions. This adds an additional security measure and ensures that children are engaged in the payment process.
4. **Transaction History**: Parents can view a **transaction history** of their child’s purchases, allowing them to keep tabs on spending behavior and verify responsible use of the feature.
5. **Remote Card Removal**: If required, parents have the option to **remotely remove** a card from their child’s device via Family Link. This serves as an extra measure of security in case any issues arise.
## A Safer, More Convenient Payment Option
The rollout of **Google Wallet** for kids provides a safer and more practical alternative to conventional payment methods. Instead of issuing physical credit or debit cards, which can easily be lost, parents can now offer a **digital payment solution** that is securely managed through Family Link. This minimizes the risk of misplaced cards while still permitting children to make purchases in a controlled setting.
## Limitations and Rollout
While the new feature brings plenty of advantages, there are also some restrictions to keep in mind:
– **No Online Payments**: As noted, kids will be unable to make online purchases, which helps mitigate the risk of unauthorized spending.
– **Limited Functionality**: Children won’t have the ability to add IDs or health cards to their Google Wallet. However, they can use **event passes**, such as tickets for concerts or sporting events.
– **Gradual Rollout**: The feature will primarily launch in the **U.S.** and select countries starting in 2025, with plans for broader availability in the future.
## A Positive Response from Parents
Google’s announcement to extend **tap-to-pay** functionality to Family Link devices follows the favorable reception of this feature on the **Fitbit Ace LTE**. In a message to **9to5Google**, the company underscored the significance of safety and parental involvement in this new feature:
> “Building on the positive feedback regarding tap-to-pay on Fitbit Ace LTE devices, we’re extending tap-to-pay for kids to Google Wallet. This new experience prioritizes safety, allowing parents to oversee their kids’ usage – including card approval, easy card removal, and transaction history tracking.”
This remark emphasizes Google’s commitment to creating a secure and user-friendly environment for families, ensuring that children can take advantage of the convenience of digital payments without sacrificing safety.
## Conclusion
The impending arrival of **Google Wallet** and **tap-to-pay** features
