Walmart Reveals Timeline to Accept Apple Pay and Google Pay Nationwide
After years as a major exception among U.S. retailers, Walmart is preparing to launch Apple Pay and Google Pay support in stores, joining the broader transition toward contactless payment options. This decision signifies a meaningful change in Walmart’s in-store payment strategy.
August Rollout Launch and Full Adoption by 2026
The company revealed that, beginning August 24, select locations—both Walmart stores and Sam’s Club branches—will allow shoppers to use contactless payments. Following this initial rollout, Walmart expects to have all of its U.S. retail stores and Sam’s Club locations equipped with the new payment technology by the end of 2026. The company also noted that its fuel stations are scheduled to be included in this rollout by mid-2027, as outlined in an official corporate announcement (link).
Customers will be able to pay with compatible smartphones, smartwatches, and contactless bank cards. Walmart has confirmed that Apple Pay users—including those with iPhones or Apple Watches—will be able to participate when the system goes live. Google has announced on its site that Google Pay will also become available as part of this initiative (link).
Walmart’s Logic and Industry Trends
Explaining the move, Walmart said it wants to enhance checkout flexibility: “We want customers and members to have choice in how they pay, so they can check out in the way that works best for them,” the company stated.
Previously, while Apple Pay has existed since 2014—now usable at over 85% of American retailers—Walmart’s stores did not allow it, instead promoting alternatives like Walmart Pay and OnePay Wallet for transaction processing. Walmart also joined other merchants in pursuing a mobile payment solution, CurrentC, which shut down in 2016.
Ongoing Support for Walmart’s In-House Payment Tools
Walmart will continue operating its proprietary payment platforms even as new options are introduced. Walmart Pay—available through the Walmart app—will still function. The Scan & Go service at Sam’s Club, which lets shoppers pay directly from their phones, will also remain an active offering (link).
This update further expands Walmart’s collaboration with Google. Alongside the integration of Google Pay at registers, the two companies have partnered on AI-driven shopping experiences. Walmart has also worked with Wing—part of the Google family—on exploring drone delivery services.
Wider Choice and Greater Convenience for Customers
By lifting its former restriction on third-party payment systems, Walmart is enabling millions of customers to use digital wallets at checkout—a preference that is increasingly common. With all physical stores participating by the end of 2026 and fuel stations following by 2027, Walmart is responding to evolving buyer habits while keeping its own digital payment platforms operational.