As much as many apps on Google Play Store are free, some require a purchase before they can be downloaded and used. Traditionally, the main method for purchasing these apps involved linking a credit or debit card. However, Safaricom has simplified this process for M-PESA users by introducing Mpesa Xpress, allowing seamless payment for apps and digital content on Google Play Store using M-PESA.
Mpesa Xpress is available to registered M-PESA users with Android devices, enabling them to easily pay for apps and other digital goods without needing to link a credit or debit card. If you’re in Kenya and use M-PESA and Google Play Store, this guide will show you how to register for Mpesa Xpress and how to use it for app purchases.
How to Register for Mpesa Xpress
If you’re ready to start using Mpesa Xpress for your Google Play Store purchases, follow these steps to register:
- Ensure You’re Registered for M-PESA: If you’re not already registered for M-PESA, you’ll need to do so by visiting your nearest Safaricom agent or using the Safaricom App.
- Set Up on Google Play Store:
- On your Android device, open the Google Play Store.
- Tap on the Profile Icon in the top-right corner of the screen.
- Select the Google account you want to link with Mpesa Xpress if you have multiple accounts.
- Go to Payment Methods:
- Click on Payments & Subscriptions from the menu options.
- Next, select Payment Methods.
- Add M-PESA Xpress Billing:
- In the payment methods section, choose Add M-PESA Xpress Billing.
- You’ll be redirected to a registration page where you will input your details.
- Enter your personal details (such as phone number linked to your M-PESA account) and save them to complete the registration process.
Once you’re successfully registered, you can now use Mpesa Xpress to make payments for apps, games, and other digital purchases on Google Play Store.
How to Use Mpesa Xpress
Once Mpesa Xpress is set up, you can use it to purchase apps and other digital items on Google Play Store. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make purchases using Mpesa Xpress:
- Search for the App: Use the search function on Google Play Store to find the app, game, or digital content you want to purchase.
- Check the Price: Once you’ve located the app or game, click on it, and the price will be displayed.
- Proceed to Payment:
- Tap on the displayed price to open the payment window.
- Select Mpesa Xpress as the payment method.
- Confirm Purchase:
- A confirmation window will appear showing the app price and Mpesa Xpress as the selected payment option.
- Tap BUY to proceed with the transaction.
- Enter Your M-PESA PIN:
- You will receive a push notification on your phone asking for your M-PESA PIN.
- Enter the PIN to authorize the payment.
- Complete Installation: Once the payment is processed, the funds will be deducted from your M-PESA account, and the app will automatically start installing on your device.
If, for some reason, the app does not install after completing the payment, you can contact the Google Help Center at support.google.com/googleplay for assistance.
How to Get a Refund After Purchasing an App
If you purchase an app and are unsatisfied with it or encounter issues, you can request a refund through Google Play Store. Here’s how:
- Search for the App: Navigate to the specific app or game in Google Play Store that you wish to request a refund for.
- Click on Refund:
- In the app’s details section, you’ll find the Refund option. Click on it to initiate the refund process.
- Uninstall the App: Once you’ve clicked on the refund button, the app or game will be automatically uninstalled from your device.
- Receive Refund Confirmation: After uninstalling the app, you should receive an M-PESA notification confirming the refund process.
What to Do If You See the “Mpesa Xpress Unavailable” Error
At times, you may encounter an error message stating “Mpesa Xpress Unavailable”. This typically occurs when the app developer has not enabled Mpesa Xpress as a payment option. If you see this message, you will need to use an alternative payment method, such as a debit or credit card, to complete your purchase.
In conclusion, Mpesa Xpress has simplified the process of purchasing apps and digital content for Android users in Kenya. It eliminates the need for credit or debit cards, offering a convenient and secure payment method for millions of M-PESA users. With this guide, you should have no trouble registering for and using Mpesa Xpress to enhance your Google Play Store experience.
