digital payments Archives

AppWizard

January 14, 2026

Google Wallet on Android looks to be that one-stop shop for your purchase history

A recent Google Play Services update is set to enhance Google Wallet on Android by providing users with a comprehensive overview of their digital payments, including a detailed transaction history for purchases made across various devices. This update will allow users to view transactions linked to their digital cards without needing to toggle between apps or log into bank accounts. Previous enhancements to Google Wallet include Live Updates for travel, which provide real-time information for flights and trains, and location-based technology that displays relevant digital passes on users' lock screens as they approach specific venues. Additionally, Android 16's Live Updates feature has expanded to provide timely information about transport schedules on users' lock and home screens.

AppWizard

January 6, 2026

How Android Apps Are Adapting To The Rise Of Cross-Platform Digital Payments

Android developers are adapting to a rapidly changing global payments landscape, driven by user demand for seamless experiences across platforms, shifting regulatory frameworks, and the rise of cross-border transactions through mobile applications. This evolution is particularly relevant for international sectors like igaming, which often utilize alternative payment methods under offshore licensing. Developers are focusing on streamlined in-app experiences by adopting payment frameworks that enhance security and expedite verification processes. Over the past two years, payment standards have diversified, leading to the implementation of unified payment layers in Android apps to accommodate various tokens, cards, mobile wallets, and region-specific methods. The number of global mobile payment users is projected to reach 5.6 billion by 2025, highlighting the need for cross-platform support. Mobile wallets, NFC, and universal payment APIs are being integrated more deeply into the Android ecosystem, allowing for instant recognition of users' preferred wallets. Streaming platforms are adopting cross-platform billing strategies, while travel apps are implementing flexible frameworks to adapt to regional regulations. In online gaming, there's a focus on diverse payment options to meet international audience expectations. By 2026, Android applications are expected to feature more cohesive payment interfaces, increased biometric verification, and dynamic updates of payment methods based on user location and device capabilities.

AppWizard

September 15, 2025

Thomas Cook India Launches Forex App ‘TC Pay’ For Android, Apple Users

Thomas Cook India Ltd. has launched the 'TC Pay' foreign exchange application for Android and Apple users, announced on Monday. The app serves business-to-consumer (B2C) customers, offering services such as forex card management, currency exchange, and international remittances. Key features include end-to-end digital fulfillment, real-time card tracking, and WhatsApp calling for support. TC Pay aligns with the trend of mobile-based remittances, which account for 60% of digital transfers globally, and reflects a shift in India towards digital payments, with over 93% of consumers using digital methods. The launch is seen as a strategic move to enhance Thomas Cook's digital presence and reach new markets. Despite this innovation, Thomas Cook India's shares fell by 1.12% on Monday, while the Nifty 50 index dipped by 0.18%.

AppWizard

July 8, 2025

Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey launches a messaging app ‘Bitchat’ that works without internet

Jack Dorsey is developing a messaging application called Bitchat that uses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) mesh technology for peer-to-peer communication. The app allows users to send messages over distances greater than 300 meters without the need for mobile data or Wi-Fi. Currently in beta on Apple’s TestFlight, Bitchat emphasizes secure and decentralized communication, sending short-lived, encrypted messages that relay between nearby devices without a central server. It does not require a phone number, email address, or user account, making it resilient against censorship and network outages. Bitchat aligns with Dorsey’s support for decentralized platforms and is inspired by Bluetooth tools used during the 2019 Hong Kong demonstrations.

AppWizard

June 29, 2025

Hackers Spying on Android Phones in Real Time, Targeting 500+ Bank, Crypto and Payment Apps To Steal Sensitive Data: Cybersecurity Firm

A new version of banking malware is targeting Android devices, allowing cybercriminals to capture login credentials and manipulate banking applications in real time. This malware uses an advanced virtualization technique to hijack legitimate banking apps by installing a malicious host application that creates a controlled sandbox environment for the targeted app. Users are redirected to this virtualized instance, where their actions are monitored and manipulated, enabling the interception of sensitive information. The malware targets nearly 500 financial applications globally, including major banks in North America, the UK, Canada, and Europe, as well as cryptocurrency wallets and digital payment platforms.

AppWizard

June 24, 2025

Android users get another option to pay later with Klarna on Google Pay

Klarna has integrated with Google Pay, enhancing Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) options for consumers during online checkout. This integration began on June 24 and will be available on select Android apps and websites that support Google Pay. Klarna's chief commercial officer, David Sykes, stated that this partnership advances the company's mission to offer transparent and adaptable payment solutions. Google Pay has been expanding its BNPL offerings since 2024, incorporating providers like Affirm and Zip. Additionally, Google has updated its card information interaction methods to include biometric security measures. There are also indications of a new feature for Google Wallet that would allow users to add cards via NFC technology, although users will still need to enter the card's CVV for security. The NFC Forum has suggested plans for broader NFC technology capabilities.

AppWizard

June 3, 2025

WhatsApp and iMessage competitor: Elon Musk announces new Vchat messenger

Elon Musk has introduced XChat, a secure messaging service aimed at transforming X (formerly Twitter) into a comprehensive communication platform. XChat focuses on privacy, file sharing, and cross-platform calling, competing with established messaging services like WhatsApp and Telegram. It is developed using Rust and features Bitcoin-style encryption and end-to-end encryption to ensure message confidentiality. Currently in beta testing, XChat will be rolled out to more users soon, although no official launch date has been set. This service is part of Musk's vision to create a "super app" that combines social networking, digital payments, media sharing, and private communication, similar to WeChat. Analysts believe XChat could significantly influence the development of Web3 applications and challenge traditional messaging platforms to innovate in security and functionality.

AppWizard

October 17, 2024

Crypto Getting Inside the Messaging Apps

Global cryptocurrency ownership surpassed 295 million people in 2021, with messaging applications like Telegram, Facebook Messenger, and WeChat integrating cryptocurrency wallets and payment systems. Telegram introduced The Open Network (TON) for seamless cryptocurrency transactions and has contributed to the growth of Bitcoin casinos. WeChat is exploring the incorporation of China's digital yuan into its payment system. Signal allows users to send MobileCoin, while Japan's Line has launched its own cryptocurrency, LINK. Key drivers for this trend include the demand for financial autonomy, speed and convenience of transactions, and the need for cross-border payment solutions. Younger demographics, particularly Millennials and Gen Z, are leading adoption rates. In-app crypto payments utilize blockchain technology for secure transactions, with a straightforward process for sending and receiving cryptocurrencies. Benefits include convenience, lower fees, and financial inclusion for the unbanked, while challenges involve regulatory hurdles, cryptocurrency volatility, and privacy concerns. The integration of crypto in messaging apps could disrupt traditional banking, affect remittance markets, and prompt partnerships between banks and messaging platforms. Future growth in cryptocurrency adoption within messaging apps is anticipated, with potential mainstream acceptance akin to credit cards and mobile payments.

BetaBeacon

August 17, 2024

Fortnite’s mobile return shows the gloriously messy app revolution

Apple and Google have significant power over mobile apps, raising prices, blocking innovative ideas, and imposing their wishes on app makers. Patreon users will soon have to pay 30% more for each payment on the iPhone app due to Apple's commission. Epic Games, the creator of Fortnite, is pushing for significant changes to smartphone apps to provide more choice and better rewards for users. These changes are being met with resistance from Google, who claims they would hurt consumers, developers, and device manufacturers. The goal of these changes is to create a better app ecosystem that promotes innovation and benefits users.

BetaBeacon

August 17, 2024

Epic Games Store and Fortnite arrive on EU iPhones

Epic and Apple have been engaged in a legal battle over changes made to Fortnite related to digital payments. In the US, Epic had some small wins but the status quo remained. In Europe, a new law required Apple to allow third-party app stores on the iPhone. Despite Apple's resistance, Epic has finally reached the point where it could launch its app store. Users have not been the winners in the battle between Epic and Apple.