Pixel Watch Express Pay is finally working again after a frustrating bug
Android Police 2026-07-23 22:07:06
Context: Google has resolved a bug that was causing issues with the Express Pay feature on Pixel Watch, allowing users to make payments without unlocking their device. The problem, which was introduced through an update, caused payments to fail if the watch wasn't unlocked. The fix is currently rolling out, and users can check if it's been resolved on their watch.
Key Facts
- The bug was causing payments to fail if the Pixel Watch wasn't unlocked, despite the Express Pay feature being designed to allow for seamless transactions without the need to open Google Wallet.
- Google has officially confirmed that the issue has been resolved, and users can check if the fix has been applied to their watch without the need for an update.
- The Express Pay feature was introduced on Pixel Watch back in March, allowing users to pay for things and use public transit without needing to open Google Wallet ahead of time.
- To activate Express Pay, users need to navigate to the Google Wallet settings on their compatible Pixel Watch, then select the Express Pay menu and follow the prompts.
- Google uses "advanced motion algorithms" to help verify the user's intent to pay before transactions go through, and the watch needs to be unlocked for an Express Pay interaction to occur, with the option to set it to only work for transit payments for added security.