NatWest has launched Tap to Pay on Android, a new way for businesses to take payments on their mobile phone, via the NatWest Tap to Pay app. Through its payments service, Tyl by NatWest, customers can now turn compatible Android devices into contactless mobile card readers and accept in-person contactless payments on their Android phones.

Following a “quick and easy” set-up process, businesses can present customers with a payment screen on their Android phone and accept a form of contactless payment securely, including credit and debit cards, as well as other digital wallets.

Tap to Pay on Android provides an alternative to for physical card terminals for businesses who don’t require a fixed solution, or who are infrequent sellers and may want a product that fits a seasonal schedule. It can also benefit larger businesses who want a cost-effective way to enable a larger workforce to take payments without needing a large pool of payment terminals.

As part of an initial rollout phase, Tap to Pay on Android will be available for a small cohort of Tyl by NatWest merchants, before a full launch later this year. NatWest said will deliver useful insights from customers around their experience using the new product, to ensure the full roll out provides a seamless experience for their loyal business customer base and their own end customers.

“NatWest Tap to Pay on Android is an exciting innovation that will give our customers more flexibility to accept in-person payments anywhere,” said  

Mike Elliff, CEO of Tyl by NatWest. “We understand that business owners are always looking for ways to streamline their operations, boost sales and connect with their customers regardless of location, all while benefiting from tech to make their own sales experience seamless. This new product enables us to meet their needs and put contactless payments into the pockets of countless businesses, optimising the payment experience for all.”