Google on Tuesday announced that its new and consolidated mobile payments service, Google Pay, is now available as a standalone app in Play Store.
The solution replaces the outdated Google Wallet service and Android Pay, a previous solution that let Android users buy goods with their smartphones. The Wallet app has been renamed Google Pay Send and received a fresh coat of paint to go with the Google Pay brand.
Google Pay combines features from both services, including the ability to pay at checkout counters with an Android-powered smartphone or tablet. There’s also the option to scan into transit systems in cities such as Kiev, London and Portland, initially.
It works with Google’s partners, allowing customers to use the service to purchase goods online through websites or using Google Assistant, in addition to in stores with a smartphone.
“We’re currently working on bringing Google Pay to all Google products, so whether you’re shopping on Chrome or with your Assistant, you’ll have a consistent checkout experience using the cards saved to your Google Account,” said the firm.
Key features include:
- Home tab—Google Pay’s new Home tab gives you the info you need, right when you need it. See your recent purchases, find nearby stores, enjoy easy access to rewards and get helpful tips.
- Cards tab—The Cards tab is an easy way to keep everything you need at checkout organized and at the ready. It’s where you’ll store your credit and debit cards, loyalty programs, offers and even that stack of gift cards from last year’s birthday.
- Pay your fare—Use Google Pay on transit in cities such as Kiev, London and Portland (with more coming soon) and stop worrying about your pass once and for all. Now all you need at the turnstile is the device that’s already in your hand.
- Security and encryption—Like all Google products, Google Pay comes with strong security protections to safeguard your account and personal data from security threats. In other words, it’s got your back.
This is just the beginning as Google is already said to be hard at work on its answer to Apple Pay Cash. Going live in the coming months, that service will let customers in the United States and the United Kingdom send money to one another, and will also compete with similar services offered through Facebook Messenger, PayPal and Venmo.
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