Samsung adopts Apple Wallet strategies with new advance payment and fast shipping services in its own wallet.
Samsung is enhancing its Wallet feature to resemble Apple’s, although it could achieve this in a more efficient way.
Samsung has launched the Galaxy S25 series today, along with several software updates that may have gone unnoticed during the event. In particular, two new features have been introduced in Samsung Wallet that, although similar to existing features on the iPhone, promise to be more effective.
The features are called "Instant Installment," which embodies the company's vision of the concept of "buy now, pay later," and "Tap to Transfer," designed to facilitate payments between users. The latter allows Samsung device owners to transfer money among themselves by bringing their phones close together, mimicking Apple's Tap to Cash functionality. However, what is noteworthy is that Samsung's system will allow interactions with third-party digital wallets.
In a recent press conference, Samsung representatives clarified that Tap to Transfer "will not be limited only to Samsung Wallet." Unlike the exclusive focus on digital wallets, this feature links to the relevant debit card or account, and it is compatible with Mastercard and Visa.
Regarding Instant Installment, Samsung does not intend to become a credit provider, but rather seeks to facilitate purchases by transforming payments into what is described as "the first offline payment plan experience." This option will be available both in physical stores and online, using Visa or Mastercard credit cards. Samsung Wallet will simply help manage this payment plan from the user's device.
Both features will not be available immediately with the Galaxy S25, but company representatives informed that they will be ready "shortly after" the launch of the new phones. A spokesperson mentioned that these functions are expected to be launched in the second quarter of the year and will be compatible with older Galaxy models. However, details are still limited, and with several months until implementation, changes may occur.
With the launch of the Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25+, and Galaxy S25 Ultra models, pre-orders have already opened, which will be shipped on February 7.
