I had great success using it today without needing to open the app. I will say that I was within my time limit of not needing to put in the pin so that may have had something to do with it. Maybe the next time put your pin in and close the app before cashing out.

 

I had the same issues. I went to a convenient store and went to use my 10 bucks.. and it did nothing, woke my phone all the way up, went to the app and then it worked. Later that day spent the rest and while in line I went in the app and just logged in and went to the home screen and it worked. I notice though that it initializes so im assuming it maybe enabling the sensor? dont know but i used it only twice.

Havent used android beam at all.

 

I used Wallet twice today. The first time I woke up the phone and didn't open the app, but Wallet did its thing and I checked out quickly.

The second time was on my new Nexus and I had just opened the app to add money so it didn't even need my pin.

 

I recorded this at work tonight on the vending machine that is going to be taking a lot more of my money soon. I had already logged into the app before recording, so I guess there is some time limit on how long it will stay active. I've just been opening it when Im in line basically to check the amount I have left on the card, then close it and its ready to rock-n-roll when I get up to pay.

Google Wallet - YouTube

 

I didnt have to launch the app either, but I did pretty much have to lay the gnex on the receiver (@ mickey d's w/ pay pass). I have a diztronic TPU case.