Google Play Services 8.1 update comes with Android Pay, but you can't use it yet

Rumors recently suggested that Android Pay was to launch this past Wednesday. Obviously, this turned out to be a false alarm, but at the very least we can assume Google’s new contact-less payment service is well on its way and coming soon.

How do we know? Well, aside from the rumors and expected launch window, a new update to the Google Play Services app (version 8.1) contains evidence of Android Pay support. Those who have updated the app noticed there was a new option under the “Tap and pay” options, which would allow users to select between Google Wallet and Android Pay.

The only problem is this feature has to be turned on by Google before it becomes accessible. Those who selected Android Pay saw no application for the service, and upon returning to the Settings app to check on the matter, they would notice the option to select Android Pay was gone. Sadly, the excitement only lasts some minutes.

I tested the whole process myself and had the same experience. Android Pay appeared as an option. I came back to the settings a minute later and it was gone.

What is Android Pay?

Are you a bit behind the times on Google’s upcoming Android Pay? Let’s get you caught up. Android Pay is a new NFC payments solution from Google. It was announced at Google IO 2015 and will allow you to pay for all your goods by simply tapping your phone on the POS system.

But wait – didn’t Google Wallet already do this? Yes, it did. Android Pay is a bit different, though. For starters, this is not just another app; the functionality will be built right into the operating system. It’s also much simpler to use, as it doesn’t come with all the confusion that Google Wallet was characterized for (due to its multiple services and functions). It also supports fingerprint readers and other security measures at a system level. This is pretty much Google Wallet, but condensed into a single purpose and refined.

Download the APK

Not seeing the update yet? If you really want to get Google Play Services 8.1, you can grab it straight from the link below.