Samsung Electronics is expanding its digital wallet service in Japan, adding new features to better compete in one of Asia’s most mature mobile payment markets.
The company announced this week that it has integrated support for JCB credit cards, NTT Docomo’s d Payment and d Point systems, and PGM Points used for golf course reservations. The additions allow users to manage credit cards, QR payments, loyalty programs, and golf bookings through the Samsung Wallet app.
Samsung first launched Samsung Wallet for Galaxy smartphone users in Japan in February. Since then, it has steadily grown the platform by adding support for local services including Orico Mastercard, PayPay, V Point, and Ponta Point. In May, it also began offering support for boarding passes from domestic airlines ANA and Peach Aviation.
Samsung was the first smartphone maker in Japan to integrate PayPay, the country’s largest QR-based mobile payment platform. The company is now doubling down by adding NTT Docomo’s d Payment, increasing its reach in Japan’s fast-growing QR payment ecosystem.
According to Samsung, the updates are part of a broader strategy to go beyond payments and provide services that align more closely with Japanese consumer habits. The company is also considering future support for FeliCa, the contactless payment standard widely used across Japan’s transit and retail systems.
Previously, Samsung Wallet was marketed primarily to Korean tourists visiting Japan. But since launching the full domestic version, Samsung has partnered with major local players like JCB and Docomo to roll out point-based promotions and other incentives aimed at Japanese consumers.
According to Counterpoint Research, Samsung held a 6% share of the Japanese smartphone market in 2024, trailing Apple (49%), Sharp (9%), and Google (8%). Despite launching several new Galaxy models, Samsung’s share declined by one percentage point from the previous year.
The company is hoping that the expanded Samsung Wallet ecosystem will help drive demand for its devices and regain ground in a market where foreign smartphone makers have long struggled to compete.
