Some Pixel smartphones seem to have been uncertified after downloading the Android 12L March Feature Drop and security patch, meaning they can no longer perform contactless (NFC) transactions with Google Pay.
Google Pixel contactless payment issue explained
This problem seems to be occurring at random after installing the newest Pixel update on Monday, however, it does not appear to occur immediately and may take a few days to appear. When this happens, you will get a message that states “Your phone does not match software requirements.”
The message shows:
“You can’t pay contactless with this device. It may be rooted, or running uncertified software. Contact your device manufacturer or visit Google Pay Help for more info.“
So far, Pixel 4a, 4a 5G, and 5 users have reported running the official March release without any device modifications (e.g. unlocked bootloader). The problem is certainly with Google and SafetyNet, which is generally just an issue during the early stages of developer previews.
To check your “Play Protection certification” status, go to the Play Store > touch your account avatar in the top-right corner > open Settings > choose “About.”
It seems that the majority of stable, non-beta users are affected. According to 9to5google opting into the Android Beta Program may provide an instant solution, but you’ll have to stick with it until Android 12 QPR3 is released in June (or sideload your way out). The other is to wait, as Google will most probably fix the contactless payment problem that some Pixel users are having. It’s uncertain how often this occurs.
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It’s annoying to lose access to your saved cards for NFC payments, particularly if you do not carry physical cards. Google is yet to comment on this contactless payment issue with Pixel users, but hopefully, they will fix this soon without the matter emerging into a serious form.
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