Google India introduces the Google Wallet app, solving the problem of forgetting essentials like your wallet or important documents. This app allows users to store and access digital documents such as boarding passes and loyalty cards. However, it’s important to note that Google Wallet is not a payment platform like Google Pay.
Google introduces Google Wallet in India
Google unveiled Google Wallet in India on Wednesday, with Google teaming up with 20 Indian brands like PVR, INOX, Air India, Indigo, Flipkart, Pine Labs, Kochi Metro, Abhibus, and more for the launch. According to the company, additional partners are expected to join in the future.
During the launch event, Ram Papatla, GM and India Engineering Lead for Android at Google expressed, “The introduction of Google Wallet in India signifies a significant step forward in Android’s journey in the country, delivering innovative and user-friendly experiences to streamline daily activities. We’re thrilled to collaborate with several of India’s leading brands to provide a comprehensive solution, enabling secure access and management of everyday necessities. Whether it’s boarding passes, loyalty cards, event tickets, or public transport passes, they’re readily available when you need them.
However, Google Wallet is different from Google Pay, as it lacks a payment feature. Unlike Google Pay, which facilitates millions of users nationwide in conducting transactions, Google Wallet focuses on other functions.
What exactly is Google Wallet, and how can you get it?
Google Wallet enables you to store various documents for easy access whenever needed. Consider it as your digital wallet, capable of managing everything from movie and event tickets to boarding passes and public transport transit tickets. With Google Wallet, you can eliminate the need to carry physical paperwork and streamline your daily tasks.
“As our lives become more digitally centered, our smartphones are our go-to for accessing everyday necessities. While Google Pay remains the go-to app for payments, Google Wallet introduces an added layer of convenience to the Android experience in India,” states a blog post from Google India.
Google Wallet empowers Android users to store and retrieve a variety of items, including movie and event tickets, boarding passes, loyalty and gift cards, and much more.
Furthermore, upon uploading your airline’s boarding pass, you’ll receive real-time updates regarding any flight timing or boarding gate modifications. For Pixel phone users, adding a boarding pass is simplified – just take a screenshot and tap “Add to Google Wallet.”
Air India becomes the first Indian airline to offer its passes directly through Google Wallet.
Dr. Satya Ramaswamy, Chief Digital and Technology Officer at Air India expressed, “In our commitment to enhancing customer satisfaction through innovative digital solutions, we constantly seek partnerships with global leaders like Google to introduce guest-friendly features. We’re proud to be the first Indian airline to offer boarding passes directly on Google Wallet. This eco-friendly solution not only benefits our valued guests but also provides convenient digital features, such as automatic updates, all in one place on their Android devices.”
Furthermore, once a person books a movie ticket, IPL ticket, or train ticket, the event confirmation sent to their Gmail account will automatically appear in their Google Wallet, provided they have smart personalization settings enabled in Gmail.
The app is accessible on the Play Store for all Android users. Simply search for it on Google Play Store, tap “Install,” and you’re all set. However, the rollout process may vary in duration, so if the installation option is not yet visible, consider returning at a later time.
