The restriction is an absolute bummer, particularly in light of the fact that Google Wallet doesn't mind root at all. To be fair, Samsung Pay is a little more complicated -- it makes uses MST (magnetic secure transmission) technology to trick older pay terminals into thinking a traditional credit card swept through its magnetic strip. This makes Samsung Pay more versatile than NFC-only payment solutions, but also adds a new vulnerability.

The company seems to be playing it safe for now. With any luck, Samsung will lift the restriction before the service launches world wide.