What is an E-Wallet?

What is an E-Wallet?

What is an E-Wallet?

E-wallets offer fast, secure, and convenient digital payments for online, in-store, and P2P transactions, simplifying money management and boosting customer experience.

E-wallets offer fast, secure, and convenient digital payments for online, in-store, and P2P transactions, simplifying money management and boosting customer experience.

18 Jul 2025

The rise of online shopping and digital payments has transformed consumer habits. Among the most popular solutions, the e-wallet, or electronic wallet, has established itself as a fast and secure means of payment. Whether for online shopping, transferring money or even storing loyalty cards, e-wallets offer a convenient alternative to traditional bank cards. But how exactly do they work and what are their advantages? Find out everything you need to know about electronic wallets and their impact on the payment experience!

The rise of online shopping and digital payments has transformed consumer habits. Among the most popular solutions, the e-wallet, or electronic wallet, has established itself as a fast and secure means of payment. Whether for online shopping, transferring money or even storing loyalty cards, e-wallets offer a convenient alternative to traditional bank cards. But how exactly do they work and what are their advantages? Find out everything you need to know about electronic wallets and their impact on the payment experience!

The rise of online shopping and digital payments has transformed consumer habits. Among the most popular solutions, the e-wallet, or electronic wallet, has established itself as a fast and secure means of payment. Whether for online shopping, transferring money or even storing loyalty cards, e-wallets offer a convenient alternative to traditional bank cards. But how exactly do they work and what are their advantages? Find out everything you need to know about electronic wallets and their impact on the payment experience!

The rise of online shopping and digital payments has transformed consumer habits. Among the most popular solutions, the e-wallet, or electronic wallet, has established itself as a fast and secure means of payment. Whether for online shopping, transferring money or even storing loyalty cards, e-wallets offer a convenient alternative to traditional bank cards. But how exactly do they work and what are their advantages? Find out everything you need to know about electronic wallets and their impact on the payment experience!

What is an e-wallet?

An e-wallet, or electronic wallet, is a digital payment solution that allows you to store, manage and use money in a dematerialised form. Also known as a digital wallet, it takes the form of a mobile app or software, offering virtual storage for payment methods such as bank cards, prepaid cards and even cryptocurrencies. This technology allows users to make purchases online or in stores, send money and even store loyalty cards. In short, an e-wallet simplifies and secures financial transactions by replacing traditional payment methods with a fully digital alternative.

An e-wallet, or electronic wallet, is a digital payment solution that allows you to store, manage and use money in a dematerialised form. Also known as a digital wallet, it takes the form of a mobile app or software, offering virtual storage for payment methods such as bank cards, prepaid cards and even cryptocurrencies. This technology allows users to make purchases online or in stores, send money and even store loyalty cards. In short, an e-wallet simplifies and secures financial transactions by replacing traditional payment methods with a fully digital alternative.

An e-wallet, or electronic wallet, is a digital payment solution that allows you to store, manage and use money in a dematerialised form. Also known as a digital wallet, it takes the form of a mobile app or software, offering virtual storage for payment methods such as bank cards, prepaid cards and even cryptocurrencies. This technology allows users to make purchases online or in stores, send money and even store loyalty cards. In short, an e-wallet simplifies and secures financial transactions by replacing traditional payment methods with a fully digital alternative.

An e-wallet, or electronic wallet, is a digital payment solution that allows you to store, manage and use money in a dematerialised form. Also known as a digital wallet, it takes the form of a mobile app or software, offering virtual storage for payment methods such as bank cards, prepaid cards and even cryptocurrencies. This technology allows users to make purchases online or in stores, send money and even store loyalty cards. In short, an e-wallet simplifies and secures financial transactions by replacing traditional payment methods with a fully digital alternative.

How does an e-wallet work?

The operation of an e-wallet is based on technology that allows payment methods to be stored and used in a dematerialised form. To use it, simply download a dedicated app, add your bank cards or prepaid balance, and then activate the security options (PIN code, biometrics, etc.). Once configured, the e-wallet can be used to make payments online or in-store via mobile payment, using NFC or QR code technology. It also facilitates money transfers between individuals, offering a simple, fast and secure transaction process.

The operation of an e-wallet is based on technology that allows payment methods to be stored and used in a dematerialised form. To use it, simply download a dedicated app, add your bank cards or prepaid balance, and then activate the security options (PIN code, biometrics, etc.). Once configured, the e-wallet can be used to make payments online or in-store via mobile payment, using NFC or QR code technology. It also facilitates money transfers between individuals, offering a simple, fast and secure transaction process.

The operation of an e-wallet is based on technology that allows payment methods to be stored and used in a dematerialised form. To use it, simply download a dedicated app, add your bank cards or prepaid balance, and then activate the security options (PIN code, biometrics, etc.). Once configured, the e-wallet can be used to make payments online or in-store via mobile payment, using NFC or QR code technology. It also facilitates money transfers between individuals, offering a simple, fast and secure transaction process.

The operation of an e-wallet is based on technology that allows payment methods to be stored and used in a dematerialised form. To use it, simply download a dedicated app, add your bank cards or prepaid balance, and then activate the security options (PIN code, biometrics, etc.). Once configured, the e-wallet can be used to make payments online or in-store via mobile payment, using NFC or QR code technology. It also facilitates money transfers between individuals, offering a simple, fast and secure transaction process.

How do you add a card to an e-wallet?

Adding a card to a wallet is quick and easy. To begin, the user must open their e-wallet mobile app and select the option to add a card. They can then manually enter their card number or use their smartphone camera to scan their credit card. Some e-wallets also allow users to link a bank account directly to facilitate transactions. Once the card has been registered and verified, it can be used for online payments, in-store via contactless payment, or for secure money transfers.

Adding a card to a wallet is quick and easy. To begin, the user must open their e-wallet mobile app and select the option to add a card. They can then manually enter their card number or use their smartphone camera to scan their credit card. Some e-wallets also allow users to link a bank account directly to facilitate transactions. Once the card has been registered and verified, it can be used for online payments, in-store via contactless payment, or for secure money transfers.

Adding a card to a wallet is quick and easy. To begin, the user must open their e-wallet mobile app and select the option to add a card. They can then manually enter their card number or use their smartphone camera to scan their credit card. Some e-wallets also allow users to link a bank account directly to facilitate transactions. Once the card has been registered and verified, it can be used for online payments, in-store via contactless payment, or for secure money transfers.

Adding a card to a wallet is quick and easy. To begin, the user must open their e-wallet mobile app and select the option to add a card. They can then manually enter their card number or use their smartphone camera to scan their credit card. Some e-wallets also allow users to link a bank account directly to facilitate transactions. Once the card has been registered and verified, it can be used for online payments, in-store via contactless payment, or for secure money transfers.

What types of payments can be made with an e-wallet?

An e-wallet allows you to carry out various types of transactions, making payments faster and more secure. It is widely used for online payments, offering a convenient alternative to traditional bank cards. In stores, contactless payments via smartphone are possible thanks to NFC technology, an increasingly popular mobile payment solution. The payment services integrated into e-wallets also allow you to make P2P payments (person-to-person) to repay a friend or split a bill. Finally, these solutions facilitate instant money transfers and encourage a cashless economy, where cash becomes unnecessary.

An e-wallet allows you to carry out various types of transactions, making payments faster and more secure. It is widely used for online payments, offering a convenient alternative to traditional bank cards. In stores, contactless payments via smartphone are possible thanks to NFC technology, an increasingly popular mobile payment solution. The payment services integrated into e-wallets also allow you to make P2P payments (person-to-person) to repay a friend or split a bill. Finally, these solutions facilitate instant money transfers and encourage a cashless economy, where cash becomes unnecessary.

An e-wallet allows you to carry out various types of transactions, making payments faster and more secure. It is widely used for online payments, offering a convenient alternative to traditional bank cards. In stores, contactless payments via smartphone are possible thanks to NFC technology, an increasingly popular mobile payment solution. The payment services integrated into e-wallets also allow you to make P2P payments (person-to-person) to repay a friend or split a bill. Finally, these solutions facilitate instant money transfers and encourage a cashless economy, where cash becomes unnecessary.

An e-wallet allows you to carry out various types of transactions, making payments faster and more secure. It is widely used for online payments, offering a convenient alternative to traditional bank cards. In stores, contactless payments via smartphone are possible thanks to NFC technology, an increasingly popular mobile payment solution. The payment services integrated into e-wallets also allow you to make P2P payments (person-to-person) to repay a friend or split a bill. Finally, these solutions facilitate instant money transfers and encourage a cashless economy, where cash becomes unnecessary.

The advantages of e-wallets

The rise of e-wallets can be explained by their many advantages, which meet the needs of consumers and merchants for speed, security and convenience. Here's why these payment systems are becoming increasingly popular.

  1. A fast and simple payment solution

With an e-wallet, transactions are almost instantaneous. Whether for an online payment, an in-store purchase or a money transfer, it only takes a few seconds to complete the transaction. There is no need to enter your bank card number or PIN code each time: payment is made with a single click or via biometric authentication (fingerprint, facial recognition). This simplicity improves the user experience and reduces the time spent at the checkout.

  1. Better transaction protection

Payment security is one of the main advantages of e-wallets. These solutions use advanced technologies such as data encryption, security tokens (tokenisation) and two-factor authentication (2FA). Even if your smartphone is lost or stolen, your payment information remains protected. This level of protection limits the risk of fraud and identity theft.

  1. Ease of use and management

An e-wallet centralises several payment methods in a single mobile app. It allows you to easily add and manage credit cards, bank accounts and even cryptocurrencies. Some wallets also integrate loyalty cards and transport tickets, offering an all-in-one experience. This ease of use appeals to both individuals and professionals.

  1. A tool compatible with a cashless world

The e-wallet fits perfectly into the transition to a cashless society, where cash is becoming less and less used. Thanks to mobile and contactless payments, it simplifies transactions and promotes a more fluid and modern economy. More and more businesses, including small businesses, are accepting this type of payment system, facilitating its widespread adoption.

  1. An ideal solution for payments between individuals

Beyond in-store and online payments, an e-wallet allows you to make P2P (peer-to-peer) payments. This makes it easy to pay back a friend, split a bill or pay for a service between individuals, without having to handle cash or wait for a bank transfer. This type of money transfer is usually instant, offering a fast and efficient alternative to traditional payment methods.

  1. Growing compatibility with online services

E-wallets are not limited to traditional payments: they are increasingly integrated into ecommerce platforms, subscription services (streaming, transport, online gaming) and even crowdfunding solutions. Their compatibility with a wide range of services makes them an essential tool for digital transactions.

Thanks to these many advantages, e-wallets are establishing themselves as modern, secure payment solutions that are well suited to new digital uses.

The rise of e-wallets can be explained by their many advantages, which meet the needs of consumers and merchants for speed, security and convenience. Here's why these payment systems are becoming increasingly popular.

  1. A fast and simple payment solution

With an e-wallet, transactions are almost instantaneous. Whether for an online payment, an in-store purchase or a money transfer, it only takes a few seconds to complete the transaction. There is no need to enter your bank card number or PIN code each time: payment is made with a single click or via biometric authentication (fingerprint, facial recognition). This simplicity improves the user experience and reduces the time spent at the checkout.

  1. Better transaction protection

Payment security is one of the main advantages of e-wallets. These solutions use advanced technologies such as data encryption, security tokens (tokenisation) and two-factor authentication (2FA). Even if your smartphone is lost or stolen, your payment information remains protected. This level of protection limits the risk of fraud and identity theft.

  1. Ease of use and management

An e-wallet centralises several payment methods in a single mobile app. It allows you to easily add and manage credit cards, bank accounts and even cryptocurrencies. Some wallets also integrate loyalty cards and transport tickets, offering an all-in-one experience. This ease of use appeals to both individuals and professionals.

  1. A tool compatible with a cashless world

The e-wallet fits perfectly into the transition to a cashless society, where cash is becoming less and less used. Thanks to mobile and contactless payments, it simplifies transactions and promotes a more fluid and modern economy. More and more businesses, including small businesses, are accepting this type of payment system, facilitating its widespread adoption.

  1. An ideal solution for payments between individuals

Beyond in-store and online payments, an e-wallet allows you to make P2P (peer-to-peer) payments. This makes it easy to pay back a friend, split a bill or pay for a service between individuals, without having to handle cash or wait for a bank transfer. This type of money transfer is usually instant, offering a fast and efficient alternative to traditional payment methods.

  1. Growing compatibility with online services

E-wallets are not limited to traditional payments: they are increasingly integrated into ecommerce platforms, subscription services (streaming, transport, online gaming) and even crowdfunding solutions. Their compatibility with a wide range of services makes them an essential tool for digital transactions.

Thanks to these many advantages, e-wallets are establishing themselves as modern, secure payment solutions that are well suited to new digital uses.

The rise of e-wallets can be explained by their many advantages, which meet the needs of consumers and merchants for speed, security and convenience. Here's why these payment systems are becoming increasingly popular.

  1. A fast and simple payment solution

With an e-wallet, transactions are almost instantaneous. Whether for an online payment, an in-store purchase or a money transfer, it only takes a few seconds to complete the transaction. There is no need to enter your bank card number or PIN code each time: payment is made with a single click or via biometric authentication (fingerprint, facial recognition). This simplicity improves the user experience and reduces the time spent at the checkout.

  1. Better transaction protection

Payment security is one of the main advantages of e-wallets. These solutions use advanced technologies such as data encryption, security tokens (tokenisation) and two-factor authentication (2FA). Even if your smartphone is lost or stolen, your payment information remains protected. This level of protection limits the risk of fraud and identity theft.

  1. Ease of use and management

An e-wallet centralises several payment methods in a single mobile app. It allows you to easily add and manage credit cards, bank accounts and even cryptocurrencies. Some wallets also integrate loyalty cards and transport tickets, offering an all-in-one experience. This ease of use appeals to both individuals and professionals.

  1. A tool compatible with a cashless world

The e-wallet fits perfectly into the transition to a cashless society, where cash is becoming less and less used. Thanks to mobile and contactless payments, it simplifies transactions and promotes a more fluid and modern economy. More and more businesses, including small businesses, are accepting this type of payment system, facilitating its widespread adoption.

  1. An ideal solution for payments between individuals

Beyond in-store and online payments, an e-wallet allows you to make P2P (peer-to-peer) payments. This makes it easy to pay back a friend, split a bill or pay for a service between individuals, without having to handle cash or wait for a bank transfer. This type of money transfer is usually instant, offering a fast and efficient alternative to traditional payment methods.

  1. Growing compatibility with online services

E-wallets are not limited to traditional payments: they are increasingly integrated into ecommerce platforms, subscription services (streaming, transport, online gaming) and even crowdfunding solutions. Their compatibility with a wide range of services makes them an essential tool for digital transactions.

Thanks to these many advantages, e-wallets are establishing themselves as modern, secure payment solutions that are well suited to new digital uses.

The rise of e-wallets can be explained by their many advantages, which meet the needs of consumers and merchants for speed, security and convenience. Here's why these payment systems are becoming increasingly popular.

  1. A fast and simple payment solution

With an e-wallet, transactions are almost instantaneous. Whether for an online payment, an in-store purchase or a money transfer, it only takes a few seconds to complete the transaction. There is no need to enter your bank card number or PIN code each time: payment is made with a single click or via biometric authentication (fingerprint, facial recognition). This simplicity improves the user experience and reduces the time spent at the checkout.

  1. Better transaction protection

Payment security is one of the main advantages of e-wallets. These solutions use advanced technologies such as data encryption, security tokens (tokenisation) and two-factor authentication (2FA). Even if your smartphone is lost or stolen, your payment information remains protected. This level of protection limits the risk of fraud and identity theft.

  1. Ease of use and management

An e-wallet centralises several payment methods in a single mobile app. It allows you to easily add and manage credit cards, bank accounts and even cryptocurrencies. Some wallets also integrate loyalty cards and transport tickets, offering an all-in-one experience. This ease of use appeals to both individuals and professionals.

  1. A tool compatible with a cashless world

The e-wallet fits perfectly into the transition to a cashless society, where cash is becoming less and less used. Thanks to mobile and contactless payments, it simplifies transactions and promotes a more fluid and modern economy. More and more businesses, including small businesses, are accepting this type of payment system, facilitating its widespread adoption.

  1. An ideal solution for payments between individuals

Beyond in-store and online payments, an e-wallet allows you to make P2P (peer-to-peer) payments. This makes it easy to pay back a friend, split a bill or pay for a service between individuals, without having to handle cash or wait for a bank transfer. This type of money transfer is usually instant, offering a fast and efficient alternative to traditional payment methods.

  1. Growing compatibility with online services

E-wallets are not limited to traditional payments: they are increasingly integrated into ecommerce platforms, subscription services (streaming, transport, online gaming) and even crowdfunding solutions. Their compatibility with a wide range of services makes them an essential tool for digital transactions.

Thanks to these many advantages, e-wallets are establishing themselves as modern, secure payment solutions that are well suited to new digital uses.

Which payment systems are compatible with an e-wallet?

E-wallets are designed to be compatible with a wide range of payment systems, offering users great flexibility. Among the most popular solutions are Google Pay and Apple Pay, which allow contactless payments via smartphone or smartwatch.

Platforms such as PayPal also integrate e-wallet technology, facilitating online transactions and payments between individuals. When it comes to bank cards, most e-wallets support international networks such as Visa and Mastercard, allowing users to use their digital wallet both online and in-store.

Finally, some solutions such as Alipay, which is widely used in Asia, offer advanced features for ecommerce and mobile payments. Thanks to this extensive compatibility, payment systems integrated into e-wallets can be adapted to the needs of consumers around the world.

E-wallets are designed to be compatible with a wide range of payment systems, offering users great flexibility. Among the most popular solutions are Google Pay and Apple Pay, which allow contactless payments via smartphone or smartwatch.

Platforms such as PayPal also integrate e-wallet technology, facilitating online transactions and payments between individuals. When it comes to bank cards, most e-wallets support international networks such as Visa and Mastercard, allowing users to use their digital wallet both online and in-store.

Finally, some solutions such as Alipay, which is widely used in Asia, offer advanced features for ecommerce and mobile payments. Thanks to this extensive compatibility, payment systems integrated into e-wallets can be adapted to the needs of consumers around the world.

E-wallets are designed to be compatible with a wide range of payment systems, offering users great flexibility. Among the most popular solutions are Google Pay and Apple Pay, which allow contactless payments via smartphone or smartwatch.

Platforms such as PayPal also integrate e-wallet technology, facilitating online transactions and payments between individuals. When it comes to bank cards, most e-wallets support international networks such as Visa and Mastercard, allowing users to use their digital wallet both online and in-store.

Finally, some solutions such as Alipay, which is widely used in Asia, offer advanced features for ecommerce and mobile payments. Thanks to this extensive compatibility, payment systems integrated into e-wallets can be adapted to the needs of consumers around the world.

E-wallets are designed to be compatible with a wide range of payment systems, offering users great flexibility. Among the most popular solutions are Google Pay and Apple Pay, which allow contactless payments via smartphone or smartwatch.

Platforms such as PayPal also integrate e-wallet technology, facilitating online transactions and payments between individuals. When it comes to bank cards, most e-wallets support international networks such as Visa and Mastercard, allowing users to use their digital wallet both online and in-store.

Finally, some solutions such as Alipay, which is widely used in Asia, offer advanced features for ecommerce and mobile payments. Thanks to this extensive compatibility, payment systems integrated into e-wallets can be adapted to the needs of consumers around the world.

How can e-wallets be integrated into the payment ecosystem?

Integrating an e-wallet into a payment ecosystem requires an approach tailored to the needs of merchants and ecommerce platforms. To accept payments via an electronic wallet, businesses must ensure that their payment solution is compatible with services such as Google Wallet, Apple Pay, PayPal and banking networks such as Visa and Mastercard.

An e-wallet can be added via a payment service provider (PSP) that offers APIs and payment modules that can be integrated into websites and mobile apps. This integration allows customers to opt for contactless payments, mobile payments or secure online transactions.

Marketplaces and merchants must also adapt their infrastructure to modern consumer habits by offering fast and secure payments through these digital payment systems. By facilitating the adoption of e-wallets, they improve the customer experience while optimising their conversion rates.

Integrating e-wallets with Mollie: a simple and effective solution

The rise of e-wallets is profoundly changing consumer payment habits. For merchants and marketplaces, accepting these digital solutions has become a strategic issue in order to improve the customer experience and maximise conversions. With Mollie, integrating an e-wallet into your payment system is a smooth, fast and secure process, without any technical complexity.

Easy integration with major e-wallets

Mollie allows businesses to accept all major digital payment systems, including Apple Pay, Google Wallet, PayPal, as well as Visa and Mastercard credit cards stored in these e-wallets. Thanks to a flexible API and plugins compatible with ecommerce platforms (WooCommerce, Shopify, Magento, Prestashop, etc.), integrating e-wallets is simplified.

No complex technical configuration is required: Mollie provides an intuitive interface and detailed guides for quick setup. This flexibility allows merchants to immediately offer mobile and contactless payments, improving their competitiveness in the market.

A smooth and optimised payment experience

Integrating e-wallets with Mollie guarantees a fast and frictionless shopping experience. Customers can pay for their purchases in seconds, without having to enter their bank details for each transaction. Whether on a website, a mobile app or even in-store via a compatible payment terminal, payment becomes simpler and more intuitive.

This fluidity significantly reduces shopping cart abandonment rates, a common problem in ecommerce, and increases conversion rates. By offering payment options tailored to new consumer habits, businesses can build customer loyalty and boost sales.

A high level of security and compliance

With Mollie, every transaction made via an e-wallet benefits from advanced protection. All data is encrypted and payments are secured by technologies such as tokenisation and two-factor authentication (2FA). In addition, Mollie complies with PCI-DSS standards and the PSD2 directive, ensuring strict compliance with European payment regulations.

Adopting e-wallets with Mollie allows merchants to offer their customers a secure payment environment, reducing the risk of fraud while strengthening user trust.

A solution tailored to businesses of all sizes

Whether you are a microbusiness, SME or large enterprise, Mollie offers a scalable and flexible solution that adapts to the needs of every organisation. With transparent pricing and no commitment, merchants can easily integrate e-wallets into their ecosystem without hidden costs or technical constraints.

By integrating modern payment solutions such as electronic wallets, businesses are positioning themselves at the forefront of new trends and meeting consumer expectations for faster, more secure and contactless payments.

Integrate e-wallets with Mollie today!

With Mollie, offering modern and secure digital payments has never been easier. Enjoy a reliable, intuitive solution that is compatible with all major payment methods on the market. Transform your customers' shopping experience and optimise your performance now by contacting us!

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MollieGrowthWhat is an E-Wallet?
MollieGrowthWhat is an E-Wallet?
MollieGrowthWhat is an E-Wallet?