Google has launched its Wallet app in India, offering Android users a digital hub for storing rewards, tickets, and even car keys. However, not all Android devices are eligible.
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New Delhi,UPDATED: May 13, 2024 15:56 IST
Google recently launched its Wallet app for Android smartphone users in India. This free app will be used as a digital hub to store rewards, tickets, and even a car key. Google Wallet launched in India is different from its international version as it cannot store bank cards or make digital payments. Here, Google Pay will continue being the payment app from the company.
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The app is available on the Google Play Store. If you can't find it here, visit the company's official website and it will redirect you to the installation page on the Play Store. The company on its website mentioned that 'not all features are available in every region, but we're to bring them to you in the coming months.'
How to use Google Wallet?
- Google Wallet offers a seamless way to manage various documents of your digital life, from storing boarding passes to managing loyalty program rewards. Here is how you can set up the Google Wallet in your Android phone:
- Download the Google Wallet app from the Play Store.
- Once downloaded, launch the Google Wallet app and follow the on-screen instructions.
- If you're new, you'll be prompted to add a payment card. You can scan it with your camera or enter the details manually.
- If you already used Google Pay, your cards, tickets, and passes you will be able to see your docs in the Google Wallet.
- You can also set up a screen lock for added security on your Android phone.
Notably, for contactless payments with your phone, make sure your device meets software requirements, has NFC (Near Field Communication), and has NFC turned on with Google Pay set as your default payment app.
Google Wallet will not support older Android devices
However, Google will not allow older Android users to use Google Wallet. Starting June 10th, Google Wallet will no longer function on devices running Android versions below 9 (Pie) or Wear OS versions below 2.x.
This decision aligns with Google's previous move to end Play services support for Android 4.4 KitKat in August 2023. With newer security features constantly emerging, maintaining compatibility with outdated systems becomes a challenge. This update ensures a safer environment for users making contactless payments with Google Wallet.
Previously, Google Wallet (formerly Google Pay) supported devices as far back as Android 5.0 (Lollipop). This update impacts users on Android Nougat (7.0, 7.1) and Oreo (8.0, 8.1). However, this change will not impact users much as over 86 per cent of Android devices already run Android 9 or higher.
But Google Wallet different from Google Pay
Notably, Google Pay and Google Wallet are separate apps with distinct purposes. Google Pay focuses on financial transactions, letting you send and receive money, manage expenses, and earn rewards. Google Wallet, on the other hand, prioritises safekeeping digital essentials like boarding passes, loyalty cards, and IDs, keeping your phone clutter-free and important things accessible. It is similar to Apple Wallet. Despite their differences, both apps will coexist on your device.
Published By:
Divya Bhati
Published On:
May 13, 2024
