Target To Launch Mobile Payment System

Target plans to introduce its own mobile payment system this year, according to a report from Recode.

A release date and scale for the rollout of the mobile payment system were unavailable from Target, but the feature will reportedly allow users to pay for items using their smartphone. As Recode notes, mobile payment features are expected to be integrated into Target’s existing applications, but the retailer hasn’t specified whether it will be on its Cartwheel app or the main Target application. The feature is expected to launch first for owners of Target’s REDcard debit or credit card.

When the system rolls out, it will put Target in line with other major retailers. Stores including Kohl’s and Wal-Mart have launched their own smartphone payment systems within the past few years. Mobile payment systems have also been increasingly common for hardware manufacturers, as companies like Samsung and Apple have added them to their smartphones. However, Target has been a gradual adopter of these platforms. Samsung Pay works at Target, but Apple Pay has yet to be supported in Target stores.

The addition of mobile payment also looks to further bolster Target’s strengths in the mobile space. Along with its standard store app, which features tools like item searches and store maps, the Cartwheel app has been a central part of the retailer’s digital strategy. The app provides coupons for shoppers and has, via Digiday, more than 13 million active users. With its upcoming mobile payment support, Target likely aims to strengthen its app and commerce ecosystem for its customer base.