How to Fix Galaxy S25 Ultra Unable to Make Mobile Payments

How to Fix Galaxy S25 Ultra Unable to Make Mobile Payments

If your Galaxy S25 Ultra suddenly stops letting you pay using Samsung Pay or Google Pay, it can be annoying, especially when you’re at checkout and ready to tap. Mobile payment issues are common and can happen for several reasons, like outdated software, NFC being turned off, or security settings blocking the feature.

Don’t worry. There are several ways to get mobile payments working again on your Galaxy S25 Ultra.

Why Your Galaxy S25 Ultra Might Be Unable to Make Mobile Payments

  • NFC is turned off or not functioning properly.
  • Samsung Pay or Google Pay needs an update.
  • Device security settings are blocking contactless transactions.
  • The terminal does not support mobile payments.
  • Software or firmware glitches affecting NFC services.

Turn On NFC.

Your Galaxy S25 Ultra uses NFC (Near Field Communication) to send payment information wirelessly to payment terminals. If NFC is off, your phone cannot make any contactless payments.

  1. Open Settings, and then tap Connections.
  2. Tap NFC and contactless payments, and then toggle the switch on.

After enabling it, try tapping your phone at the payment terminal again.

Set a Default Payment App.

If you use multiple payment apps, your Galaxy might not know which one to use by default. Setting one app as the default ensures smooth transactions.

  1. Open Settings, and then tap Connections.
  2. Tap NFC and contactless payments, and then tap Contactless payments.

Choose Samsung Pay or Google Pay, depending on which you prefer.

Update Samsung Pay or Google Pay.

Outdated apps can fail to communicate properly with payment terminals. Updating ensures your payment app meets the latest security and compatibility standards.

  1. Open the Galaxy Store or Play Store, and then search for Samsung Pay or Google Pay.
  2. Tap Update if available.

Once updated, restart your Galaxy S25 Ultra and try paying again.

Disable Power Saving Mode.

Power Saving Mode can limit background services, including NFC functions and payment apps. Turning it off ensures full functionality.

  1. Open Settings, and then tap Battery and device care.
  2. Tap Battery, and then toggle off Power saving.

With Power Saving Mode off, mobile payment apps will run without restrictions.

Clear Cache and Data for Payment App.

Corrupted data can prevent payment apps from functioning properly. Clearing the cache often resolves performance issues.

  1. Open Settings, and then tap Apps.
  2. Tap Samsung Pay (or Google Pay), and then tap Storage. Tap Clear cache, and then tap Clear data.

After clearing, reopen the app, sign in, and set it up again.

Update the Device Software.

Your Galaxy S25 Ultra may need the latest system update to support new payment protocols or fix NFC bugs.

  1. Open Settings, and then tap Software update.
  2. Tap Download and install, and then follow the on-screen instructions.

Reboot your device after installation and test the payment function.

Reset All Settings.

If none of the above fixes work, a settings reset can help restore default configurations without erasing your data.

  1. Open Settings, and then tap General management.
  2. Tap Reset, and then tap Reset all settings.

This resets system preferences, which often resolves deep software conflicts.

Once your Galaxy S25 Ultra is back to normal, you should be able to make mobile payments quickly and securely again.


FAQs

Why does my Galaxy S25 Ultra fail to detect the terminal?

This can happen if the terminal doesn’t support contactless payments or if the NFC area on your phone isn’t aligned correctly with the reader.

Can I use mobile payments without NFC?

No. NFC is required for contactless payments. Ensure it is enabled before trying again.

Does rooting or modifying software affect Samsung Pay?

Yes. Rooted or modified devices may block Samsung Pay for security reasons. Restoring to official software is required to use it again.

Leie Gabrielle is a college student with a deep passion for technology, gaming, and all things digital. When he’s not buried in coursework, he’s exploring the latest gadgets, leveling up in his favorite games, or breaking down tech trends for curious minds. With a sharp eye for innovation and a love for learning, Gabrielle brings fresh perspectives to the ever-evolving digital world.