(Telecompaper) Google has finally announced that the pilot programme for its Hands Free payments scheme has gone live in San Francisco's South Bay Area. First revealed last year, Hands Free allows users to make mobile payments without even having to reach for their phone by simply telling the cashier: "I'll pay with Google." Users need to install the Hands Free app for Android or iOS, add a photo for identification and choose a credit card attached to their Google account or add a new one. Hands Free then uses Bluetooth low energy, Wi-Fi and location services on the user's phone to detect whether they're near a participating store. The cashier then confirms identity by checking the user's photo and asking for their initials. For now, Google's payment partners in the SF South Bay Area include McDonalds, Papa John's and other local eateries.