Google Wallet hacked for Verizon phones

Dan Seitz Contributing Writer, Tech

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Verizon has blocked Google Wallet from being used on its phones because it has a new payments scheme coming too. And, of course, the free market is built on preventing other people from fairly competing. But until Verizon is sued into oblivion over this, hackers have filled the gap.

The bad news is that it’s a bit involved, but there’s documented proof that the hack does work:

You really shouldn’t try this unless you’re a reasonably experienced Android hacker, or are very, very good at following detailed instructions with multiple complex steps.

So why am I even bringing it up?

First, to tell Verizon users that their phone has been robbed of functionality for stupid, greedy reasons and that they should complain. Secondly to illustrate that robbing computers of functionality for stupid, greedy reasons is… well, it’s stupid.

Seriously, Verizon couldn’t honestly believe that hackers wouldn’t figure out a work around for this one in fairly short order. Things like this drive hackers crazy and they love to break these rules. In fact, expect simpler instructions or even a basic one-touch-does-it-all program to come soon. At least until Verizon enables Google Wallet.

Google Wallet Hack Hits Verizon Galaxy S III [Engadget]