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Google has officially rolled out a new feature allowing children with Android phones to make in-store purchases using Google Wallet in select countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Spain, and Poland. Google released the update on Wednesday to create digital payment platforms for youngsters in environments where parents can provide oversight and protection.
The recent update allows children to use Google Wallet to access supported passes including event tickets library cards and gift cards. The feature continues to exclude online payment options, ensuring that children can only conduct physical transactions.
It is important to note that Google established multiple protection measures to maintain proper use practices. To link their payment card to Google Wallet, children must first obtain parental consent. Each time a child makes a purchase Google sends an email notification to their parents.
Parents who use Google’s Family Link parental control app gain access to three key features that help them manage their child’s spending habits:
- Track recent purchases
- Remove payment cards
- Disable access to passes
How to Set Up Google Wallet for Kids
To enable Google Wallet for a child, parents need to follow these steps:
- Open the Wallet app on the child’s Android phone.
- Tap the “Add to Wallet” button in the bottom left corner.
- Select the “Payment card” option and tap “New credit or debit card.”
- Verify parental identity by logging into their Google Account.
- Add a credit or debit card to enable in-store purchases.
Once set up, children can utilize their devices to make payments at retail stores which support the same payment method.
This new feature positions Google in a competitor position against Apple since Apple already operates a comparable Apple Cash Family platform. Google introduced this digital payment capability as part of its spring 2025 release plans which now helps expand digital payment options for young users.
While the service is currently limited to five countries, Google has not disclosed any details regarding future expansion to additional countries.
With the growing reliance on digital payments, this update offers a convenient and controlled way for children to engage in cashless transactions while keeping parents informed and in control.
