Google Wallet Update Requires Newer Android Versions
Users of Google Wallet will soon need to ensure their devices are up-to-date with modern software requirements. In a move to bolster security and functionality, Google has announced that as of June 10, the use of Google Wallet will necessitate Android 9 (Pie) or higher on smartphones, and Wear OS 2.x or higher on smartwatches.
This update was highlighted in a support document uncovered by 9to5Google. The tech giant has cited the lack of security updates for older Android versions as the primary reason for this change. Devices running on outdated software are more vulnerable to security breaches, hence the need for this transition.
As it stands, Google Wallet is accessible to devices with Android 7 or newer. However, this update will leave users on Android Nougat and Oreo needing to upgrade their operating systems. With the tech world already on the cusp of welcoming Android 15, and with more announcements expected at the upcoming Google I/O event, staying current is more important than ever.
Since its inception, Google Wallet has been a staple on Android phones, coming preinstalled since 2015. In a related development, Google has also decided to phase out the Google Pay app starting June 4, transitioning fully to the Google Wallet platform. This decision aligns with Google’s strategy to streamline its payment services under a single umbrella, simplifying the user experience.
