Google announced in February its decision to purchase the supporting technology behind the Softcard mobile payment app from its joint owners—Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile. The deal closed at the end of February thereby shutting down Softcard’s operations. As of March 31, Softcard will become Google Wallet.
If you’re familiar with Softcard, then it’s quite likely you have seen its fear-inspiring mascot “Tappy” and its performances in ads run by its parent company. As for those who haven’t seen Tappy, there is bittersweet news for you. Softcard and Tappy will be closing their operations as a mobile wallet system at the end of the month. This means you’ll be spared the disturbing view of ever seeing Tappy but will also miss ever seeing the world’s worst mascot in its element.
To confirm the acquisition and change of ownership, Softcard management released a statement on its website that it will be replaced by the Google Wallet. Carriers with a pre-installed version of the Softcard app will also be replacing it with the Google wallet app.
The statement from Softcard says:
“We are pleased to let you know that Google has acquired technology from Softcard to power the next generation of mobile wallets. What does that mean for you? As of 3/31 your Softcard app will no longer work. You can continue to use the Softcard app until 3/31. After that your Account will be closed.”
So why don’t we send Softcard and the irrepressible Tappy off in style by watching this Ad one more time.
- Microsoft will challenge Google Chromebooks with $149 Windows 10 laptops - April 1, 2015
- Windows 10 Mobile coming soon to most Windows Phone devices - April 1, 2015
- Security researchers identify malware threat to virtual currencies - March 30, 2015