Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority
Google Wallet is now available in India, serving as a digital wallet for storing passes and tickets. However, it is not for making payments. The app will be alongside the Google Pay app, which will handle payment functionality. Globally, Google Wallet has integrated payment functionality from Google Pay into the app. Google’s ecosystem strategy is often confusing, with the Google Wallet and Google Pay apps being prime examples.
At an event in India, Google launched the Google Wallet app, coexisting with the Google Pay app in the country. Users can store various passes and tickets, such as movie tickets and loyalty cards, with the app. Google Pixel devices sold in India will come preloaded with the Google Wallet app. Unfortunately, Google Wallet will not be available on wearables in India.
Google Pay will continue to be the primary payment option in India, with Google Wallet serving as a digital storage for access information. No payments can be made through Google Wallet in India. Google has a history of complicating its ecosystem with various payment apps like Wallet, Android Pay, Google Pay, and Tez, now Google Wallet coexists alongside Google Pay in India and Singapore. In other countries, all functionalities are integrated into the Google Wallet app.
The situation can be confusing, but Google is working to simplify its branding and app strategy. Have a tip? Contact us at news@androidauthority.com.