Google has recently launched the Google Wallet app exclusively for Android users in India, joining forces with numerous ecommerce and ticketing partners.
For simple access, the Google Wallet application allows users to store a variety of items, including tickets, boarding passes, loyalty or membership cards, and more. Google unveiled collaborations with twenty notable brands during its launch, including major airlines (Air India and Indigo), cinema franchises (PVR & INOX), and leading ecommerce and fintech companies (Flipkart and Pine Labs).
In addition to these partnerships, commuters and travelers on services such as Kochi Metro, Hyderabad Metro, VRL Travels, and Abhibus can also utilize the app to store their passes and tickets. Furthermore, Google has collaborated with system integrators like Wavelynx and Alert Enterprise to incorporate corporate identity badges into the Wallet app.
It’s important to note that Google Wallet is a distinct product from Google Pay in India, where Google Pay encompasses payment features in other markets.
Ram Papatla, the general manager and India engineering lead for Google’s Android team, emphasized the enduring significance of Google Pay in the Indian payments landscape, reiterating its status as the primary payments solution for the company.
Papatla remarked, “The launch of Google Wallet in India represents a significant milestone in Android’s journey in the country, introducing innovative and user-friendly experiences to simplify daily tasks. We are excited to partner with many of India’s top brands to offer a comprehensive solution that enables secure access and management of everyday essentials.”
In terms of functionality, Google Wallet shares similarities with Apple Wallet, allowing users to digitally store tickets, boarding passes, and loyalty cards.
Despite the larger market share of Google Pay, strategic partnerships with key players are expected to provide Google Wallet with a competitive advantage. Whether the app will extend its availability to iOS users remains to be seen.
