Google Play Services: January update brings Wallet innovations and more

Every month, Google releases updates via Play Services and the Play Store. The updates contain new features on smartphones and other products in the Google ecosystem, such as tablets, watches, smart TVs, Android Auto, and Chromebooks, without requiring an Android update from the device manufacturers.

With updates to Play Services version 26.01 (01/12/2026) and Play Store v49.7 (2026-01-12), Google is delivering new features for end-users, while others are specifically aimed at developers.

Wallet control and more stability

With the January system update, Google is enabling a general overview of transactions from other connected devices and online purchases with virtual card numbers for Wallet. This feature is available for smartphones and smartwatches.

In addition, with the updated Play Services, “changes to system management services” are being introduced, which are intended to improve stability. This update is not only for smartphones and ‑Watches, but also for cars with Android Automotive, PCs (Chromebooks), and devices with Google TV.

Furthermore, Google is integrating new features for developers of Google and third-party apps to support location- and context-based processes in their applications.

New Android WebView Version 144 (01/07/2026)

The Android system component WebView has also received an update to version 144, which, however, was released on January 7th of this year. According to Google, the new version contains “improvements in security and privacy, as well as updates to fix bugs.”

As can be seen, the January system services update has been quite manageable. The December version had comparatively more to offer; for example, it included improved parental control setup on Android. Experience shows, however, that Google could release further innovations via Play Services throughout January.

(afl)