Samsung Electronics has strengthened its financial services footprint in the United States with the introduction of its first credit card, the Samsung Galaxy Card, issued by Barclays and operating on the Visa network. The card enables users to handle the entire journey—from application to account management—directly through Samsung Wallet.
The Samsung Galaxy Card allows users to apply, track expenses, and redeem rewards seamlessly via Samsung Wallet. According to Reuters, the card offers 5% cash back on Samsung purchases, additional rewards for transactions made through Samsung Pay, and various perks across other spending categories.
The launch positions Samsung in more direct competition with Apple Pay within the U.S. digital payments market. Technology firms and financial institutions are tightening the integration between digital wallets and financial products to anchor smartphones at the core of payment and wealth management. Doug Villone, Head of Cards and Partnerships at Barclays US Consumer Bank, noted that the digital card is designed to deliver a streamlined payment experience for consumers managing financial transactions on mobile devices.
Expansion Signals from Samsung
Sih Lee, Head and Vice President of Samsung Electronics North America Fintech Business, highlighted that at least one Samsung device is present in 70% of U.S. households, with approximately 30% of households owning three or more Samsung products. Describing the partnership with Barclays as strategic and long-term, Lee signaled that Samsung may explore expanding its collaboration into additional financial products and services beyond credit cards in the future, provided they offer meaningful value to customers.
Barclays noted that its cooperation with Samsung could evolve into new domains over time. As part of its broader strategy to scale its U.S. credit card portfolio, the bank acquired General Motors’ credit card business in 2024, allowing customers to earn reward points across various GM models, including Buick, Cadillac, and electric vehicles. Villone stated that Barclays is actively seeking new partnership opportunities, emphasizing that alliances can expand into different sectors whenever they provide clear value to consumers.
