Google Wallet frustrates Wear OS users with PIN requirement on watch

Google Wallet users on Wear OS smartwatches are feeling frustrated by a recent change that now requires them to enter their PIN on the watch before every contactless tap-to-pay transaction. This disrupts the previously seamless experience. And it has gotten some users questioning the convenience of using Google Wallet on their watches.

Previously, Wear OS users could simply open the Google Wallet app on their watch and tap to pay. Now, a PIN prompt appears, adding an extra step and defeating the purpose of the wearable’s quick payment capabilities. Google likely implemented this for enhanced security. However, users see it as a significant inconvenience that could potentially discourage the use of Google Wallet on their watches.

Security vs. convenience

The reason behind the change is security-focused, although Android Police speculates it could be a bug. But with Google Wallet on Wear OS already verifying a user’s PIN if the watch is removed from the wrist, this new measure may seem redundant. Some speculate whether Google doesn’t fully trust Wear OS’s existing security protocols.

The uncertainty surrounding the change is a further point of annoyance. Google has yet to officially confirm whether this is a permanent feature, a test in progress, or an app bug. The company’s updated support page mentions stricter verification but primarily focuses on phones, leaving smartwatch users in the dark.

Comparison to the Apple Watch

For those already annoyed by Google Wallet’s recent PIN requirement on phones, this Wear OS change adds insult to injury. Apple Watch’s streamlined double-tap of the side button now seems far more attractive, underscoring Google’s move as a step backward in user experience. It’s worth noting that entering a PIN on a watch’s small screen is inherently less convenient than phone-based fingerprint authentication. While people in the US may already be familiar with verification for every contactless payment, small transactions often go unverified in Europe. Limits vary by country – the UK allows up to £100, Germany €50, and Belgium only €25 before verification becomes necessary. With Google Wallet now requiring users to input a PIN with every transaction on their watch, the process will become a little annoying.

While enhancing security is admirable, Google’s latest Google Wallet change may have unintended consequences. Wear OS users value speed and ease, and this added PIN step significantly compromises that. Unless Google clarifies this change or introduces a better workaround, users may opt for traditional payment methods or even switch to competitor platforms with more seamless payment experiences.