During the Google IO 2015 conference in California on Thursday, Google announced Android Pay, the firm’s answer to Apple Pay that will allow customers to make purchases directly from their Android smartphones. Prior to Thursday, Android users had to rely on third-party options from manufacturers such as Samsung or Google Wallet.

Google said Android Pay will work at more than 700,000 retailers when it launches, and that it’s also going to be embedded into applications, which is similar to how Apple Pay works. Users will only need to hold up their phone to an NFC terminal to make a payment, so a separate app isn’t required.
Initial carriers that will offer support include AT&T, T-Mobile and Sprint, and credit card companies such as American Express, Discover, MasterCard and Visa are also on board. Retailers including Babies R’ Us, Best Buy, Aeropostale, American Eagle Outfitter, Bloomingdales, GameStop, Jamba Juice, Walgreens, Whole Foods, McDonald’s, Macy’s, Toys R’ US, Staples, Office Depot, Petco, Sports Authority, Subway, Panera Bread and more will support the service.
Android Pay will also take advantage of Google’s new Android M fingerprint APIs so that user can make payments inside of apps, or at retailers, using their fingerprint. All you need to do is tap your finger and the payment will be processed, Google explained.