Softcard to shut down March 31st, shifts focus to Google Wallet

Softcard, the mobile payment system built by Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile, has just announced it’s shutting down on March 31st. When the 31st rolls around, all Softcard mobile applications will stop working and all active accounts will be shut down. Softcard explains that if users still want to use a digital wallet app, they should download Google Wallet before time runs out.

Here’s what Softcard has to say:

Important News! We are pleased to let you know that Google has acquired technology from Softcard to power the next generation of mobile wallets. What does this mean for you? As of 3/31 your Softcard app will no longer work. You can continue to use the Softcard app until 3/31. After that your Account will be closed.

To keep using a digital wallet app download Google Wallet now.

A few days ago, Google announced that it was acquiring some “exciting technology and intellectual property” from the mobile payment system, eventually aiming to release a revamped version of Google Wallet. Especially now that Google has major competitors in the mobile payment space like Apple Pay and Samsung Pay, this acquisition comes at the right time.

Additionally, the purchase of the mobile payment tech now allows Google to preinstall the Wallet app on Android devices sold by all three of the mobile carriers involved. There’s no telling when we’ll see any big advancements in Google Wallet, but if you’re a current Softcard user, you may want to make the switch before your account is shut down. If you’re one of those people, head to the Google Play Store link below to download Google Wallet.