Press Release 12 August 2025
Octopus Launches Octopus on Android for All Users
Card transfer feature enables seamless mobile payments in under one minute
(Hong Kong, 12 August, 2025) Octopus Cards Limited today launched Octopus on Android for all users, expanding beyond its successful Preview Release program. The full launch introduces card transfer functionality, allowing Android users to transfer eligible physical Octopus to their phones in under one minute.
Once activated, customers can pay at over 190,000 acceptance points across public transport and retail by simply tapping their phones — no unlocking or app opening required. Octopus on Android integrates with Google Wallet for enhanced security via Google's "Find My Device" feature.#
Pioneering New Technology to Power Seamless Experience
Andy Yip, Director of Consumer Business and Product at Octopus: "Our goal is to bring the convenience and simplicity of Octopus payments to every Hongkonger's mobile. Over the past eight years, we've brought Mobile Octopus to Samsung Pay, iPhone, Apple Watch, Huawei Pay, and now Android devices. Octopus on Android uses Host Card Emulation (HCE)* technology, among the world's first implementations enabling screen-off payments.”
Mr. Yip said: “Since Android runs on devices from multiple manufacturers and with a wide range of configurations, we have chosen to use software-based HCE technology to ensure customers can use Octopus seamlessly, quickly, securely, and reliably across various devices.”
Simple Setup, No Pre-Registration Required
Octopus on Android supports most device models running Android 12 or above, or EMUI 13 or above, sold by authorised retailers in Hong Kong.[1] Customers can also transfer Octopus on Android from their existing Android device to the same or another brand of Android device at any time.
Starting 12 August, all Android customers can transfer physical Octopus via the Octopus App in three simple steps:
- Download the latest Octopus App from Google Play Store or Huawei AppGallery
- Select "Transfer physical Octopus to Octopus for Android" and follow verification prompts
- Set NFC default payment to Google Pay/ Google Wallet, Android OS (Samsung), or Octopus (Huawei)
Adding Octopus to Google Wallet is recommended for enhanced security.
Multiple Top-Up Options Available
Like physical Octopus, Octopus on Android supports a maximum stored value of $3,000. Customers can top up via Octopus Wallet, bank accounts (Faster Payment System), banking apps, Automatic Add Value Service (via Credit Card or FPS), or credit/debit cards issued in Hong Kong through Google Wallet and UnionPay App.
Building Access Update in Progress
Customers are advised to retain their physical Octopus for building access as some property managers are upgrading their systems to support Octopus on Android. Before transferring, please refer to the list of supported buildings to ensure compatibility.
Strong Beta Adoption Signals Market Demand
Since the launch of the Octopus on Android, the number of customers and usage has more than doubled so far this year,[2] marking another milestone for Octopus in expanding its mobile payment services.
Mr. Yip added: "To celebrate the launch, we offered exclusive card images for Octopus on Android users, with over half of new users choosing to download and use them. New customers who add a new Octopus on Android or transfer their physical Octopus to Octopus on Android are eligible for a welcome offer of $100. We'll continue expanding services to make everyday life easier."
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