Walmart Ditches QR Codes for Tap to Pay

Published on 22/08/2026 19:37 in technology • Linda Jackson

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Walmart Ditches QR Codes for Tap to Pay

In a long-awaited move, Walmart is finally abandoning its QR code-based payment system in favor of standard Tap to Pay technology. Starting August 25, the retail giant will begin rolling out support for both Google Pay and Apple Pay at its US stores and Sam's Club locations. This change aims to simplify the checkout process and provide customers with more payment options.

No more QR codes at the register. | Image by PCMag

Walmart Pay, the company's proprietary mobile app, will no longer be required for contactless transactions. Instead, customers can use their eligible credit or debit cards, phones, or wearables to complete purchases by simply tapping them at the point of sale. Android users will be able to utilize Google Wallet once the feature is available at their local Walmart store.

The company will also allow customers to add their Walmart, Sam's Club, and OnePay cards to their preferred digital wallets. By the end of 2026, Walmart plans to support Tap to Pay in all of its US stores and clubs, with gas stations set to follow suit by mid-2027.

This shift marks a significant change for Walmart, which has long been a proponent of its own QR code-based payment system. The move towards standard Tap to Pay technology aligns with industry trends and consumer preferences, providing customers with a more seamless and convenient checkout experience.