Google has made some perplexing product decisions in 2024, leaving users pondering the future of its offerings. Adding to this trend is the launch of Google Wallet in India, which differs significantly from its international counterpart. Here’s what sets it apart.
Rumors about Google Wallet’s release in India have been circulating since February, and now it’s finally here. According to Google, the Wallet and Google Pay apps will coexist in India. The Wallet app is designed for storing transit, gift, and loyalty cards, without offering tap-to-pay functionality. On the other hand, Google Pay will continue to handle payments, which seems rather convoluted.
Google Wallet in India is Simply a Digital Vault
I was excited about Google Wallet’s launch in India because it promised the ability to make contactless payments not just through my phone but also from a Wear OS device. However, the app’s focus on storing passes and digital assets instead of being a dedicated payment platform is disappointing. Having two separate apps for different functions makes the situation confusing.
Google Pay will be the default payment platform in India, which is a bit unsettling given Google’s recent decision to shut down Google Pay for the Google Wallet app in the US. It’s confusing that Google chose not to support the Wallet app for Wear OS in India, especially since it sells the Pixel Watch 2 there.
One possible reason Google may not want people to use Google Wallet for payments in India is the app’s user base and market share, which is significant at 35% and 37.5% in P2P and P2M transactions, respectively. Google likely wanted to avoid any confusion that might arise from people thinking Google Pay is going away or shifting to Wallet.
The decision to launch Wallet as a digital vault in India may also be due to regulatory approval from the RBI. However, many users were looking forward to tap-to-pay functionality on Wear OS devices, which Google did not include, disappointing those who anticipated this feature.
Google Wallet is now available for download on Android devices in India via the Google Play Store. It may come preinstalled on future Pixel devices launched in the country. Users can add a Wallet shortcut to their lock screens, but the Quick Settings Wallet widget is not functional. Google has partnered with several firms, including PVR, Air India, MakeMyTrip, BMW, Pine Labs, Hyderabad Metro, and Domino’s, for loyalty programs, travel cards, and gift cards.
What are your thoughts on the launch of Google Wallet in India? Are you excited or disappointed? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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