Google Play Adds New Payment Option for Android Apps and Games

Android users now have another payment option when purchasing apps, games and other eligible digital content through the Google Play Store, expanding the ways customers can complete transactions without relying solely on traditional bank cards.

The addition is part of Google’s continuing effort to broaden payment choice across Google Play. Available methods can vary significantly by country and may include credit and debit cards, Google Play balance, PayPal, carrier billing and region-specific payment services.

When a supported payment option is available for an account, users can generally find it by opening the Google Play Store, tapping their profile picture and selecting Payments & subscriptions followed by Payment methods.

Payment options can also appear directly during checkout when purchasing a paid Android app, game or eligible in-app item. Users can select an existing method or, where supported, add another option before completing the transaction.

Google Play’s payment system is used not only for one-time app and game purchases but also for eligible in-app purchases and subscriptions. The exact methods offered depend on factors including the user’s Google Play country, payment profile, device and local availability.

Expanding the range of payment methods can be particularly useful for people who prefer not to enter a conventional credit card for every digital purchase or who rely on mobile wallets, account balances and other alternative payment services.

Users should note that the appearance of a new payment option is not necessarily global. Google frequently rolls out payment methods on a market-by-market basis, and an option available to one user may not yet appear for another.

Android users who want to see which methods are currently supported on their account can check the Payment methods section of Google Play or review Google’s official country-specific payment guidance.

How to check your Google Play payment options

1.    Open the Google Play Store on your Android device.
2.    Tap your profile icon.
3.    Choose Payments & subscriptions.
4.    Select Payment methods.
5.    Review the payment choices currently available for your account and country.

Availability note: Google Play payment methods differ by country and account. Users should check their own Play Store payment settings for the options currently available to them.

Source

Original report: Neowin, “You can now buy Android apps and games using a new payment option.” Additional background checked against reporting on Google Play payment-method expansion.