Google has rolled out a new feature allowing kids to make digital payments and store passes using Google Wallet. The feature is available in the U.S., U.K., Australia, Spain, and Poland, but not in Canada yet, sadly.
With parental supervision, children can now use Google Wallet on Android devices to tap and pay in stores, as well as store event tickets, library cards, and gift cards in one place. This is like giving your kids access to a digital allowance but tied to your credit card.
It’s a free for all when it comes to spending though. Parents must approve payment cards before they can be added, and they receive email notifications whenever their child makes a purchase. They can also monitor spending, remove cards, or turn off access through Google’s Family Link.
Apple currently does not offer a similar feature for children, as Apple Wallet is tied to individual Apple IDs with no dedicated parental controls for digital payments. You can add your credit card to your kid’s iPhone and Apple Wallet, but there are no controls if your kiddo goes rogue at 7-Eleven.
The new Google Wallet update will roll out in eligible countries over the next few weeks. With people rarely carrying cash nowadays, this is one way for parents to let their kids have access to funds when needed.
Want to see more of our stories on Google?
P.S. Want to keep this site truly independent? Support us by buying us a beer, treating us to a coffee, or shopping through Amazon here. Links in this post are affiliate links, so we earn a tiny commission at no charge to you. Thanks for supporting independent Canadian media!
