On a side note: I've applied for the KBC IE Basic Current account (which might actually come in handy at some point) as I have read of users having problems using boon (Twitter/Forums). Who knows how long it will continue to work? At least KBC would be a good backup option. Also: It's a proper bank account, the language is English and the currency is € with makes it a good option for me. Two of my UK accounts have increased their foreign POS transaction costs, which means it's become basically unusable abroad. On my recent trip to the US I usually payed with boon (1,75% + MC conversion rate -> I thought that was a decent deal, with added benefit of Apple Pay security). Never had a problem. Next time I'm in the UK I'll try to open an account with Metro and/or Starling bank, as they have good deals on their accounts - especially abroad. But you need a UK address / residency which most won't have, but for those who do: Those are the banks to go with.
I agree with docfred that this summer will be primetime for Apple Pay / hopefully in Germany. And if nothing happens (or no announcements), then that's more or less it until 2019. I enjoy using boon in Germany, but would also appreciate Sparkasse/ING support. People keep talking about DKB/Commerzbank, but ING is by far the largest direct bank in Germany. They also offer Apple Pay in Australia (with many holdout banks there) and the German branch is known for at least trying to be at the forefront of tech / position itself as an innovative bank. There is a good chance of them being a launch partner. They also don't have an Android payment option so possible a chance for Google Pay there as well. Another advantage: They actually offer Girocard contactless, which many other banks (apart from Sparkasse/Volksbank) don't offer. A problem is the business proposition: This is where direct banks have an advantage, as they live off transaction costs / mortgages / loans, but customers cause high costs with free accounts, free money withdrawal. If they can get people to increase spending by card / smartphone, that saves them money - even when you deduct the "Apple pay tax".
