Mobile wallet payments are digital payments made using a smartphone wallet such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, or other regional wallets. The wallet stores tokenized card credentials and enables fast, secure checkout in apps, web pages, or via contactless (NFC) terminals—commonly used for EV charging and other services.
How mobile wallet payments work
Mobile wallet payments typically follow one of these methods:
– In-app payment: user selects Apple Pay / Google Pay during checkout inside a mobile app
– Web / QR payment: user scans a QR code, opens a payment page, and pays with a wallet
– Tap-to-pay (NFC): user taps a phone on a contactless terminal (phone acts like a card)
Behind the scenes, the wallet generates a payment token and the transaction is processed through a payment service provider (PSP), reducing exposure of actual card details.
Why mobile wallet payments matter in EV charging
For EV charging networks and charge point operators, mobile wallets can improve payment accessibility and conversion:
– Reduces onboarding friction for casual users compared to full app registration
– Speeds up checkout for ad-hoc payment at public charging sites
– Supports secure tokenization and fewer manual card-entry errors
– Improves user experience in high-traffic locations (retail, city parking, hospitality)
– Works well with dynamic pricing, receipts, and session tracking when linked to a CPMS
Key requirements for implementation
To support mobile wallet payments reliably, operators typically need:
– PSP support for the required wallets and compliant checkout flows
– Clear price transparency (tariffs, fees, pre-authorization rules) before payment
– Session-to-payment linkage so paid sessions start correctly via OCPP
– Stable connectivity (terminal/app/web ↔ CPMS ↔ charger)
– Refund, dispute, and failed-start handling workflows
Common limitations and issues
– Wallet availability depends on region, device type, bank support, and settings
– QR/web payments can fail in areas with poor cellular coverage
– Terminal-based payments add hardware cost, certifications, and maintenance
– Price differences can appear between operator checkout and roaming apps if tariffs are not aligned
– Pre-authorization holds can confuse users if not explained clearly
Related glossary terms
Mobile wallet charging
Contactless payment
Ad-hoc payment
Payment service provider (PSP)
CPMS
OCPP
QR code payment
Mobile app payments
Tariffs and pricing models
Roaming