Cash App is letting users ditch their cards for a touch of magic, officially launching a $25 physical magic wand that functions as a tap-to-pay device.
The new "Cash App Wand" is a pearlescent, sparkly NFC-enabled device that links to your Cash App card. Anywhere you can use your phone or card for contactless payments, you can now use the wand. This whimsical gadget is Cash App's first foray into hardware with its new "Cash App Tags" product line, with plans for more shapes and sizes in the future. The Tags don't require Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, simply tapping the device to your phone links it to your account after registering your Cash App card.
Thomas Templeton, Block's hardware lead, explained that while digital payments are convenient, they've lost their fun factor. He believes payment tools should be visible, expressive, and a conversation starter, aiming to keep the wand "top of wallet" in a delightful way.
In testing, the wand proved to be a hit, attracting attention and working seamlessly for purchases like coffee and transit fares. While one initial attempt to buy gummy bears was declined due to setup issues, subsequent taps for various items went off without a hitch. Templeton emphasized the goal is user delight, calling the wand "delightful and fun and whimsical."
The trend of attaching payment cards to homemade magic wands has been gaining traction on platforms like TikTok and in rave culture, but Templeton asserts the Cash App Wand concept originated internally long before these trends. The current wands are a limited release, with plans to test various Cash App Tag categories and gather user feedback for future iterations, potentially even integrating Tags into clothing or jewelry.
Interestingly, the launch comes at a time when Block, formerly Square, has faced significant workforce reductions, leading to a reportedly demoralizing office culture. When asked about the company's current "vibes," Templeton maintained an optimistic outlook, stating that Block is "shipping faster than ever" and operating like a startup again.
