[arbyjr]

And then you resort to insults after a little sarcasm hurts your fragile ego. Don't state obvious facts about the lack of Google services being available to Windows phone users in a Windows phone user forum unless you're looking for a sarcastic reply.

Yes, they really are pulling the app. Android just happens to have options. Doesn't mean the app isn't being pulled.

Are you able to comprehend that or is that asinine as well?

Wow really what insult was that? That there was no reason to be sarcastic, or that it was an asinine comment, that everybody here has already read from the article.

Thanks for trolling, this will be the last time that I replay to you on this subject...

[anon6002755]

Wow really what insult was that? That there was no reason to be sarcastic, or that it was an asinine comment, that everybody here has already read from the article.

Thanks for trolling, this will be the last time that I replay to you on this subject...

It's alright. They sell preparation h and many other products to relieve your issue.

Ignorance is okay. But to refuse to stop living it it, now that's a problem.

But back to the real issue. Windows 10, hopefully, will attempt fix this for us users. Until the release of that there isn't much relief on that avenue. My no good bank sure don't seem like they will help anything with a dedicated payment app since they killed their regular banking app. Still not giving up my icon though. Something may eventually happen.

[Lee B]

But back to the real issue. Windows 10, hopefully, will attempt fix this for us users. Until the release of that there isn't much relief on that avenue. My no good bank sure don't seem like they will help anything with a dedicated payment app since they killed their regular banking app. Still not giving up my icon though. Something may eventually happen.

It would be interesting to know if MS even considered trying to outbid Google for Softcard -- or at least to buy the WP part of the business.More likely, MS plans to add more functionality to the Wallet app. In theory, Wallet can do all kinds of things -- including tap to pay -- and its capabilities supposedly expanded with WP8.1. The one small problem is that almost none of its potential functionality is supported, so that in practice the app is pretty much useless. But it's there, and there's always hope that MS can work out the issues with hardware, software, banks and wireless carriers. If MS wants to be more than a small niche player in mobile, this is a feature they have to be working on. Mobile payments are still in their infancy, but growth is going to be taking off. In the early days of the auto industry, growth was slow because of the lack of infrastructure (service stations, highways, etc.). Same for payments now, but that'll change.

[arbyjr]

It would be interesting to know if MS even considered trying to outbid Google for Softcard -- or at least to buy the WP part of the business.More likely, MS plans to add more functionality to the Wallet app. In theory, Wallet can do all kinds of things -- including tap to pay -- and its capabilities supposedly expanded with WP8.1. The one small problem is that almost none of its potential functionality is supported, so that in practice the app is pretty much useless. But it's there, and there's always hope that MS can work out the issues with hardware, software, banks and wireless carriers. If MS wants to be more than a small niche player in mobile, this is a feature they have to be working on. Mobile payments are still in their infancy, but growth is going to be taking off. In the early days of the auto industry, growth was slow because of the lack of infrastructure (service stations, highways, etc.). Same for payments now, but that'll change.

For a while Microsoft had been fairly complacent and when ever these others come calling needing help with software related problems, they are right there. It's like they just think that the other companies are going to reciprocate. But it seems that in the end they are left bewildered and dumbfounded. Maybe this could be the wakeup call they need to get back to business as usual. Years ago Microsoft would have been raked over the coals for something like Google just pulled, but times have changed and maybe they need to finally wake up...

[jazz70]

there were a bunch of articles out a month or so ago talking about Google trying to buy Softcard so I would think (hope) Microsoft wasn't blindsided by this acquisition and has some plans of their own for tap to pay

I'm not quite ready to wave the white flag yet and dump WP over losing NFC tap to pay but with this happening so close to MWC you would think people attending the event are going to be talking about it so I'm guessing MS is going to have to address this situation whether they want to or not, so hopefully we will get some new info in a few days

[anon6002755]

I'm not quite ready to wave the white flag yet and dump WP over losing NFC tap to pay

Especially since us icon users weren't officially able to use it but for the past 16 days or so...officially.

[Kasey Pierce]

I'm just going to leave this here for you two....

internet argument
This is something that idiots do online when they are bored and / or have no friends.

These lamers normally make shorter versions of their pointless sayings to conserve time so they can argue with very little effort. Examples inclue STFUAD, STFUAGBTW, stfuah, stfub, stfubar, STFUBISYUTHAKYAOTD, STFUbIsyuthaKYAotdyBAMFA, Stfubling, stfubomb
"Arguing on the internet is like running in the Special Olympics... Even if you win, you're still retarded." A true quote of what an internet argument is.

[anon6002755]

I'm just going to leave this here for you two....

internet argument
This is something that idiots do online when they are bored and / or have no friends.

These lamers normally make shorter versions of their pointless sayings to conserve time so they can argue with very little effort. Examples inclue STFUAD, STFUAGBTW, stfuah, stfub, stfubar, STFUBISYUTHAKYAOTD, STFUbIsyuthaKYAotdyBAMFA, Stfubling, stfubomb
"Arguing on the internet is like running in the Special Olympics... Even if you win, you're still retarded." A true quote of what an internet argument is.

Alright and since that has been moved on from by both involved parties let's get it back on topic.

Softcard or soon to be lack there of and mobile payments, particularly NFC payments.

[arbyjr]

I'm just going to leave this here for you two....

internet argument
This is something that idiots do online when they are bored and / or have no friends.

These lamers normally make shorter versions of their pointless sayings to conserve time so they can argue with very little effort. Examples inclue STFUAD, STFUAGBTW, stfuah, stfub, stfubar, STFUBISYUTHAKYAOTD, STFUbIsyuthaKYAotdyBAMFA, Stfubling, stfubomb
"Arguing on the internet is like running in the Special Olympics... Even if you win, you're still retarded." A true quote of what an internet argument is.

See this really wasn't an argument on the internet. This was just an honest discussion, until someone tried to escalate it to that point. It still come be civil discussion, but some people seem too childish to grow up.

[Kasey Pierce]

Wow really what insult was that? That there was no reason to be sarcastic, or that it was an asinine comment, that everybody here has already read from the article.

Thanks for trolling, this will be the last time that I replay to you on this subject...

I mean...I'm literally just looking at this trying to figure out what was civil about it...i'm trying really hard.MY point was made. Try harder. You accused him of trolling, and pretty much said you were done with him...then continued on for a bit longer. I'm just calling it like i see it.Thanks for the attention though, i feel special! Busy weekend.Sorry i didn't reply sooner, cheers!

"a little sarcasm hurts your fragile ego"-akak84 #2civil4me

[Kasey Pierce]

So...Softcard right? that blows....

[arbyjr]

I mean...I'm literally just looking at this trying to figure out what was civil about it...i'm trying really hard.MY point was made. Try harder. You accused him of trolling, and pretty much said you were done with him...then continued on for a bit longer. I'm just calling it like i see it.Thanks for the attention though, i feel special! Busy weekend.Sorry i didn't reply sooner, cheers!

"a little sarcasm hurts your fragile ego"-akak84 #2civil4me

You know I answered his statement in a very polite way, then only pointed out there was no reason for sarcastic childish retorts.
Then next I was accused of resorting to insulting him. Really where was that at? Where at all did I insult him or any other person In this whole thing?
And yes he was accused of trolling because the only post or comments from him were sarcastic childish remarks. And even after he continued on for 3 more post of childish attacks to incite a argument. Does sarcasm hurt my ego, no not at all. I'm very fluent in sarcasm, its like my 3rd langue.

Even going back to your question in this post about what you can do with your balance remaining in your Softcard account. I answered that in the same "tone" as any other comment in this whole fiasco. I only bring this up because yesterday I received a new replacement "serve" card, so that just makes me wonder if this was for all customers and brought me back to your post and wondered if you received one too…

I'm glad you feel special, and glad your weekend was busy, hope there was time for fun though.

[anon(7901790)]

You know I answered his statement in a very polite way, then only pointed out there was no reason for sarcastic childish retorts.
Then next I was accused of resorting to insulting him. Really where was that at? Where at all did I insult him or any other person In this whole thing?
And yes he was accused of trolling because the only post or comments from him were sarcastic childish remarks. And even after he continued on for 3 more post of childish attacks to incite a argument. Does sarcasm hurt my ego, no not at all. I'm very fluent in sarcasm, its like my 3rd langue.

Even going back to your question in this post about what you can do with your balance remaining in your Softcard account. I answered that in the same "tone" as any other comment in this whole fiasco. I only bring this up because yesterday I received a new replacement "serve" card, so that just makes me wonder if this was for all customers and brought me back to your post and wondered if you received one too…

I'm glad you feel special, and glad your weekend was busy, hope there was time for fun though.

I mean...I'm literally just looking at this trying to figure out what was civil about it...i'm trying really hard.MY point was made. Try harder. You accused him of trolling, and pretty much said you were done with him...then continued on for a bit longer. I'm just calling it like i see it.Thanks for the attention though, i feel special! Busy weekend.Sorry i didn't reply sooner, cheers!

"a little sarcasm hurts your fragile ego"-akak84 #2civil4me

See this really wasn't an argument on the internet. This was just an honest discussion, until someone tried to escalate it to that point. It still come be civil discussion, but some people seem too childish to grow up.

[arbyjr]

Ok, I'm sorry, back to topic
Yesterday I received a new replacement "serve" card, so I wonder if all Softcard users received this or if they are coming to all. When I called to "active" the new card, it wasn’t just automated and I was actually talking to a guy on the other end about the app, and told him that I really didn't need a prepay credit cards, and he said "holds on" in a odd tone, I told him that I was really interested in canceling and again his only answer was "hold on". I was confused and still am, but if it wasn't just he was trying to not lose customers, maybe we should be waiting for something...

And yea, I'm sorry for going way off topic, and really if anyone does want to, go a head and clean up the posts because they do have nothing to do with the topic at hand please do so...

[Lee B]

I haven't heard anything from Softcard, but I'm using an Amex card I already had. I know from news accounts that the service is supposed to end soon, but, for now, it's still working (in the relatively few places that offer tap to pay).

[tgp]

I haven't heard anything from Softcard, but I'm using an Amex card I already had. I know from news accounts that the service is supposed to end soon, but, for now, it's still working (in the relatively few places that offer tap to pay).

As long as you have Softcard set up and functioning, I believe you're good through the end of March. That's when Android users will be forced to quit using it. I'm pretty sure it's the same on WP.

[arbyjr]

Robert Burns, Account ending in XXXXX

Hello Robert Burns,

You may have seen the recent announcement that the Softcard app is being discontinued. We want to assure you there will be no other changes to your American Express Serve Account and that it will continue to work outside of Softcard.
• You can still use your plastic Serve Card in-store or online at the millions of merchants that accept American Express® Cards worldwide.
• Your balance will not be affected and you can continue to manage your Account on your phone with our American Express Serve® Mobile App1, including adding money, paying bills, viewing transactions and more. Download the app for iOS or Android.

• You can continue to enjoy all the features and benefits of your Full Service Prepaid Account, such as free Direct Deposit, free cash withdrawals at over 24,000 MoneyPass® ATMs2 and free online bill pay.

If you have any questions regarding this matter or your Serve Account, please contact us at 1 866 289 2330.


Thanks,
The American Express Serve Team



(1) Data rates may apply.
(2) Transactions at non-MoneyPass® ATMs have a $2 American Express Serve fee. ATM operator fees may also apply. See serve.com/atm for details.

Contact Customer Service
View Our Privacy Statement

Please note: This e-mail was sent from a notification-only address that cannot accept incoming e-mail.

American Express Serve® is issued by American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. American Express Serve Account terms, conditions and fees apply. Please see American Express Serve Consumer User Agreement for complete details.

© 2015 American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. All rights reserved. Serve.com 4315 S. 2700 W., Salt Lake City, UT 84184-0440

Everyone get this email today?

[arbyjr]

Odd part I called that number on the email and I was rudely informed be a female Amex employee that this is about the 2000th time that someone has called about this. And that Softcard is not American express. So she gave me the right number and after a short wait on hold I asked about switch my funds from the "serve" to one of my regular American express cards and after 20 minutes of mumbling and being transferred to 3 different people (who all sounded like the same person) I was told that they couldn't transfer my finds to my Amex cards because Amex will not allow that. So called Amex and was told the same, that the serve cards have the Amex logo but are not real Amex cards and they can't transfer funds from those cards to a real Amex card. We ended up doing a bank transfer to one of my personal banks to retrieve my money.

Only reason I gave up on just keeping the plastic card was why. If I have to carry my wallet anyway, I already have credit cards in there so why would I really need to keep a prepay credit card too. I could have just used the service for the next couple weeks, but I didn't want to buy that much subway, burger king, McDonald's... or waste that much money at the hand full of vendors who excepted tap to pay. .

[wpn00b]

My understanding is that this is simply because the company that was in control of this no longer is and Google only bought it to do their own thing. Softcard literally wouldn't care where the money is coming from... They would just support it.

These companies (Google included) are incredibly short sighted and don't understand that they were built on the backs of Microsoft and it's users. They will learn however.

I was already dedicated to the cause and have held onto my HTC 8X from 2012 and have learned that it doesn't take the latest and greatest software/hardware to have a great user experience(it's nice though), it takes great engineering. And while Microsoft is delivering on features slowly, they are coming through with a stable, reliable OS that I refuse to leave even more so simply because of moves like this.

I'm rambling again but I think my point is clear. Stand fast by WP. We will be rewarded.

If my carrier didn't disable the Wallet I'd be using it by now.

[anon(7901790)]

And that's exactly why I previously said that PayPal really needs to get into the game. They could easily clobber Apple and Google in this arena.

[Legoboyii]

And that's exactly why I previously said that PayPal really needs to get into the game. They could easily clobber Apple and Google in this arena.

Exactly!
PayPal users > Apply Pay + Google Wallet users combined.

[arbyjr]

My understanding is that this is simply because the company that was in control of this no longer is and Google only bought it to do their own thing. Softcard literally wouldn't care where the money is coming from... They would just support it.

These companies (Google included) are incredibly short sighted and don't understand that they were built on the backs of Microsoft and it's users. They will learn however.

I was already dedicated to the cause and have held onto my HTC 8X from 2012 and have learned that it doesn't take the latest and greatest software/hardware to have a great user experience(it's nice though), it takes great engineering. And while Microsoft is delivering on features slowly, they are coming through with a stable, reliable OS that I refuse to leave even more so simply because of moves like this.

I'm rambling again but I think my point is clear. Stand fast by WP. We will be rewarded.

If my carrier didn't disable the Wallet I'd be using it by now.

Over the years Microsoft has been an evil tyrant, and even when being disciplined by the government, they still took their rage out on most smaller companies (Google included).
However, over the years they have seemed to of turned a new leaf, and when any of these companies are in trouble Microsoft is there to help them out, it's just MS may think that the wounds have healed but probably not. Maybe poking the bear enough will get them to wake up and get back to what they can do (well with out being evil and tyrannical this time).

[arbyjr]

And that's exactly why I previously said that PayPal really needs to get into the game. They could easily clobber Apple and Google in this arena.

Right and see in the beginning I was under the impression that Softcard was actually under the umbrella of Amex, and not holding out in their parents garage. (not that anything is wrong with that, because after all that is where Apple started).

[arbyjr]

i really think that we need to get back Microsoft Bob, that was a real winner and could really settle this tap-to-pay deal...

[MikeSo]

And that's exactly why I previously said that PayPal really needs to get into the game. They could easily clobber Apple and Google in this arena.

According to PayPal, we can buy stuff in stores with their app? I've never tried it - does it work? I assume the number of merchants that take it is miniscule, but how does it work if it can bypass the whole carrier issue? Does it bypass the issue altogether by making the merchant scan a QR code in the app or something? To me, that seems just as easy as using NFC anyway...

https://www.paypal.com/us/webapps/mpp/pay-in-stores

EDIT:

So I guess it's no app or phone needed, you just punch in your phone number and your PIN at the terminal. Well that makes it easier. Safer? Don't know about that...