The mobile version of Samsung Pay Russia, the service that allows payments with a smartphone using Mir cards, does not function on the latest Galaxy Fold 5 and Flip 5 devices, according to Durov’s Code. The outlet notes that earlier Samsung smartphones could be configured to region-switch and install Samsung Pay Russia from the Galaxy Store branded app, but this workaround no longer works on the new Fold 5 and Flip 5 models. When users attempt these manipulations on the Fold 5 and Flip 5, they encounter the error message stating that Samsung Pay Russia is not supported on this phone.
Industry observers say the issue reflects Samsung’s strategic shift away from Samsung Pay. The company is now focusing on Samsung Wallet, a service that has yet to receive official availability in Russia. Durov’s Code adds that, in practice, some Mir cards issued by Russian banks can still connect to Samsung Wallet on the Galaxy Fold 5 and Flip 5, but this requires devices tailored for markets such as Kazakhstan or Vietnam. For most Russian users, changing the device region via firmware remains the only workaround to access the service, if at all.
Analysts point out that Samsung’s current roadmap has prioritized Wallet over Pay, and this pivot affects how Russian users and retailers experience mobile payments. Despite the rollout challenges, sales of Samsung devices like the Galaxy Z Fold and Flip continue to grow in Russia, with consumer interest driven by the foldable form factor and the appeal of flagship hardware.
In summary, Samsung Pay Russia does not work on Galaxy Fold 5 and Flip 5, as Samsung redirects attention to Samsung Wallet and broader digital wallet strategies. While some Mir card connections persist on specialized regional devices, the path to a fully supported mobile payment experience for Russian customers remains uncertain, reflecting ongoing regional considerations and product strategy choices by Samsung.