PayPal has launched a new software development kit for Android. Following on from the iOS version launched in March, the Android SDK will allow developers to integrate PayPal payments into their apps, providing them with an alternative payment processing system to Google Play, and the option to pay for in-app items or services by credit or debit card.
Supporting Android 2.2 and later, the SDK will naturally allow for payments directly from the PayPal account, and will use a system from previously-acquiried Card.io to scan the face of the credit card via the device’s camera as an alternative to allowing the user to type it in manually. Crucially, the SDK will allow for payments within the app without needing the user to install or switch to the current PayPal Android app, keeping the payment process in-app and relatively simple.
Developers in the US will be able to start using the Android SDK from May 15th, with other areas to follow in the future.