Garmin Wallet set to replace Garmin Pay as central hub
Garmin is renaming its tap-to-pay feature. Garmin Pay is becoming Garmin Wallet, with signs pointing to a broader role for the service in the near future. Could this be linked to the expected launch of the LTE-enabled Fenix 8 Pro?
From simple payments to something more
If you’ve used Garmin Pay before, nothing is changing in how you make transactions. As originally reported by GarminRumours, the rebrand won’t affect your saved cards or how checkout works. Tap-to-pay will still work just as it always has. But instead of Garmin Pay, you’ll now see everything grouped under the name Garmin Wallet.
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The Wallet will act as a central hub for managing your cards, passcodes, and any related settings. Alerts, system messages and support pages will also switch to using the new name. It’s a branding change, but one that lays the foundation for more features down the line.
The shift mirrors what others are doing
Now make no mistake, the company isn’t breaking new ground with the Wallet name. Apple, Google and Samsung have already built their ecosystems around the idea that your watch or phone can replace most things you’d normally carry in your pocket. Garmin is now leaning into that same model, but possibly from a slightly different angle. Rather than chasing mass-market convenience, they could be aiming for targeted utility, especially for outdoor and active users.
If Garmin plays this right, Wallet could become more than just a catch-all for payments. Transit cards and digital IDs are the obvious next step. But there’s also potential for sport-specific passes, gym check-ins, race bib storage or even entry to fitness events. For example, marathon runners could use Wallet to access secure areas at races, scan into pace groups, or receive post-race rewards. Adventure travellers might store digital permits or location-based credentials for national parks and trailheads.
A quick look back at Garmin Pay
Garmin first launched its payment service in 2017. It gave users a way to pay from the wrist without needing a phone or wallet. The idea was simple: add your card, tap your watch at the terminal and you’re done.
At launch, Garmin Pay supported just a handful of banks and worked with only a few watch models. But it steadily expanded, both in coverage and device support. It was never aiming to compete directly with Google or Apple, but it filled a useful gap for runners, cyclists and gym-goers who didn’t want to carry anything extra.
Interesting timing
Garmin hasn’t officially rolled out the Wallet rebrand yet, but signs suggest it’s coming soon. The shift in branding appears just as the company is gearing up for a major update to how its devices handle connectivity. The upcoming Fenix 8 Pro, according to recent leaks, could include LTE calling, two-way messaging and satellite-powered safety tools.
If Garmin is planning to turn its watches into more standalone communication tools, it will need a way to organise everything cleanly. Wallet could be that container.
The fact that both developments are surfacing at the same time suggests a coordinated move. The timing suggests Garmin is getting its house in order. Wallet might seem like a small change, but it lines things up for whatever comes next.
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