Take payments with just your smartphone — now even better
You already know the convenience of taking payments with just your smartphone. Tap to Pay on Android has become an essential tool for entrepreneurs, sole traders and established retailers alike. And with our recent updates, it just got a lot better.
Whether you drive a taxi, run a market stall, or own another type of small business, the latest update to Tap to Pay on Android turns your Android device into a powerful standalone payment terminal.
The best part? Your customers will now enjoy faster transactions and more reliable payments. Discover below what's new when it comes to Tap to Pay.
What is Tap to Pay on Android?
Tap to Pay on Android is a contactless payment solution that turns your Android smartphone into a mobile card reader. You won't need any additional hardware to accept payments from contactless cards, enabled wearables or digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay. Customers simply tap their devices or cards on your smartphone to process payments instantly.
Here is what makes Tap to Pay on Android such a game-changer:
Accept contactless cards and wallets straight from your Android smartphone: Your customers can pay using their mobile wallets or debit and credit cards by simply tapping them on your phone.
No card reader, no activation fees, no extra hardware: Eliminate the need for payment terminals or card readers to start accepting payments. With Tap to Pay, you can accept payments without upfront costs, such as setup or activation fees.
Set up in minutes via the free SumUp app: The setup process is seamless. Just download the SumUp app and enable Tap to Pay on Android. You'll be ready to receive payments with a few simple taps.
What's new — and why it matters
The latest update to Tap to Pay on Android brings several key improvements that enhance the payment process for both merchants and customers. Here are the upgrades to expect:
Quicker detection
Nobody likes lingering at the payment terminal after shopping or at the end of their taxi ride. That's why speed is crucial during transactions. With quicker card detection, your customers no longer have to hover awkwardly, unsure if the payment has gone through.
PIN entry support
One of the most impactful updates is the addition of PIN entry support. Your customers can now authorise card transactions that exceed the contactless limit, or otherwise require them to enter their PIN. If your business deals with larger-than-average order values, PIN entry support opens up new possibilities.
Visual prompts
Visual prompts and guidance on the screen help customers complete transactions smoothly. This provides an intuitive experience, especially for first-time users or older demographics who may be less familiar with mobile payments.
Expanded card scheme support
With the card scheme support now extended to American Express and Discover Cards, Tap to Pay on Android has widened its appeal. This is beneficial for businesses that serve tourists, international clients or high-net-worth customers who favour premium cards.
Why use Tap to Pay on Android now?
There's never been a better time to embrace Tap to Pay on Android. The benefits and data speak for themselves, highlighting how valuable this payment method has become:
Tap to Pay on Android usage is rising across the UK and Europe: Contactless payments are becoming the norm. Adoption rates across the UK and wider Europe have surged, with consumers expecting contactless options, even in small local shops, salons, food trucks or pop-up events.
First-tap success rate has doubled: The upgraded system significantly improves the likelihood of a successful transaction on the first attempt, meaning fewer delays and happier customers. It's a win for customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.
Average value up by 25% since PIN support: With the introduction of PIN support, there has been a 25% increase in the average transaction value. This indicates customers' willingness to use Tap to Pay on Android for significant purposes.
Great for on-the-go sellers and retailers: Tap to Pay on Android is a versatile tool suitable for retailers, mobile traders, food truck vendors, taxi drivers, or anyone needing a backup. With industry trends leaning towards mobile-first payment methods, now is the perfect time to future-proof your business.
Secure by design
Security is non-negotiable. That's why Tap to Pay on Android is built with security at its core, using industry-standard protections to safeguard every transaction. Whether you handle dozens of transactions a day or just a few high-value transactions, you're backed by advanced technology that meets and exceeds global security standards.
Built-in encryption and fraud protection
Every payment is encrypted and processed with the same high-level security you'd expect from traditional card terminals. This ensures that your business and customers are always protected. The technology also includes robust fraud detection systems designed to identify and block suspicious activity in real-time without slowing down the checkout experience.
PIN-secured
For transactions requiring a PIN, PIN entry functionality is now supported directly on your Android smartphone. Customers are prompted to input their PIN securely on your screen, allowing for larger purchases while maintaining regulatory compliance. This opens the door for more transaction types, all while keeping the process safe and seamless for your customers.
No data stored on the device
A key aspect of Tap to Pay on Android security design is that no cardholder data is stored on your device. Customers don't have to worry about their data being stored during or after a transaction. This minimises the risk of data breaches due to phone loss, theft or unauthorised access. Even if your device is compromised, payment data remains completely safe, stored only in secure cloud environments built to the strictest standards.
Protected against screenshots and screen recordings
To further safeguard sensitive interactions, Tap to Pay on Android is protected against screen-capturing methods, including screenshots and screen recordings. This means that private information such as PIN codes or card numbers cannot be inadvertently or maliciously saved during the transaction process.
These security features are compliant with PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard). This ensures that your business adheres to best practices in payment security. By adopting Tap to Pay on Android, you not only improve customer convenience but also uphold the highest levels of trust and safety in every transaction.
How to start using Tap to Pay on Android
Getting started with Tap to Pay on Android is simple. You don't need to be tech-savvy, and you certainly don't need to invest in any new equipment. Just follow these three easy steps:
1. Download or open the SumUp app
Begin by downloading the free SumUp app from the Google Play Store. With the app acting as a central hub, you can manage transactions, monitor sales and activate the Tap to Pay on Android functionality. It is designed to be user-friendly, so even first-time users will find the SumUp interface intuitive and easy to navigate.
2. Enable Tap to Pay on Android
In the SumUp app, go to the settings menu and scroll to the option that enables Tap to Pay on Android. The setup process is seamless, and no complicated forms, external devices or training are required. Simply follow the on-screen prompts and give the necessary permissions for your device to start functioning as a payment terminal.
3. You're ready to accept payments
Just like that, you're up and running. Your Android smartphone is now a fully operational contactless card reader. No wires or cables, no activation fees and no delays. Whether you're preparing for a bustling market weekend, setting up at a food festival or offering services on the go, you can start accepting payments instantly.
This streamlined setup ensures you can start accepting payments immediately. You will spend less time setting up and more time serving your customers.
Turn your smartphone into a powerful payment tool
Mobile payments have evolved. What was once seen as an optional add-on is now becoming the standard for businesses that want to stay ahead of the competition and keep customers happy. With the newly upgraded Tap to Pay Android, you can serve customers more efficiently, accept higher-value transactions and enjoy the flexibility of a card-free setup.
Tap to Pay on Android is more than just a convenience; it's a powerful tool designed for modern business owners. It’s fast, secure and simple to use, ensuring you deliver the best checkout experience every time.
Download the free SumUp app today and turn your Android phone into a professional payment terminal
