Google Wallet vs Google Pay: What is the Difference?

Ever felt confused between Google Wallet and Google Pay? You’re not alone! Both these names get tossed around, leaving many Indians scratching their heads. Fear not, for this blog will be your one-stop guide to understanding these handy digital tools.

Let’s rewind a bit: Back in the day, we had two separate apps – Google Wallet for storing money and sending it to friends, and Google Pay for contactless payments at stores. But things have changed!

Introducing Google Wallet, the All-rounder

Imagine a digital wallet that holds everything you need, from your debit cards for payments to your boarding pass for your next Goa trip. That’s exactly what Google Wallet is! It’s the new kid on the block, replacing Google Pay for most Indians.

With Google Wallet, you don’t have to worry about losing your boarding pass, loyalty card, student ID, event ticket, etc. You don’t have to carry around a wallet full of cards and tickets anymore.

• Think of it as a super-powered wallet: Store your debit and credit cards, boarding passes, movie tickets, loyalty cards, and even your driver’s license (in some states). No more bulky wallets or frantic searches for that elusive loyalty card!
• Sending money made easy: Need to split a bill with your friend after that delicious dosa? Google Wallet lets you send and receive money directly from your bank account, just like Google Pay used to.

What about Google Pay then?

Don’t worry, Google Pay isn’t disappearing completely! Here’s the twist:

Google Pay is mainly used to make UPI payments with people or businesses. Google Wallet is mainly used for non-finance transactions. Although the name is a bit confusing, Google Wallet will co-exist with Google Pay in India with various functionalities.

In India, Google Pay will still be your go-to app for sending and receiving money with friends. So, next time you need to pay your flatmate for their share of the groceries, Google Pay remains your buddy.

Here’s a table to simplify things further:

Feature	Google Wallet	Google Pay (India)
Payments in stores	Yes	Yes (credit/debit cards, loyalty cards, boarding passes, etc.)
Sending/Receiving Money	Yes	Yes
Storing cards/tickets	Yes (credit/debit cards, loyalty cards, boarding passes etc.)	No

Differences between Google Wallet and Google Pay

Google Pay is widely used as a daily UPI payment platform in India, mainly for QR codes and UPI IDs. However, with Google Wallet, users have another payment option to carry out digital transactions, primarily debit and credit cards.

• If you want an all-in-one digital wallet: Google Wallet is your champion. It handles payments, stores essentials, and lets you send money too.
• If you only need to send/receive money: Google Pay is still your app for quick peer-to-peer transactions.

Remember: This is the situation for India. In some other countries, Google Pay might handle everything, including in-store payments. So, it’s always a good idea to check with Google’s official resources for your specific region.

Beyond the Basics: Perks of Google Wallet

• Safe and Secure: Google Wallet uses heavy-duty security measures to keep your information safe. Think of it like a bank vault for your digital stuff.
• Quick and Convenient: Access everything you need with a tap or two. No more rummaging through your bag for that loyalty card!
• Keeps you organized: Finally, say goodbye to overflowing physical wallets and misplaced cards. Google Wallet keeps everything neatly categorized.

Getting Started with Google Wallet

If you haven’t already, download the Google Wallet app from the Play Store. It’s usually a simple update to your existing Google Pay app. Once you’re in, you can add your cards, tickets, and other essentials.

Final Thoughts

Google Wallet and Google Pay might seem confusing at first, but hopefully, this blog has cleared things up. With Google Wallet, you get a powerful digital companion that makes life easier and keeps your essentials organized. So, ditch the bulky wallets and embrace the future of digital payments!