Google is uniting all of its different payment tools under the Google Pay brand, and Google's Android Pay becomes Google Pay, with the enhanced payment app for Android to launch today.
The new mobile payment app offers simple checkout process, access to rewards and offers and it is the oOne spot for purchases, passes, and payment methods. Google is also planning to bring Google Pay to all Google products, so whether you're shopping on Chrome or with your Assistant, you'll have a consistent checkout experience using the cards saved to your Google Account. The company is also working with partners online and in stores, so you'll see Google Pay on sites, in apps, and at your favorite places around the world.
At first glance, the new Google Pay app is basically a redesign of Android Pay. In terms of functionality, the Google Pay home screen now shows you relevant stores around you where you can pay with Google Pay. That list is based on previous stores where you used the service, and based on your location, too. In addition, the home screen also shows you all of your recent purchases and you can also still add all of your loyalty cards to the app, too.
The Cards tab is an easy way to keep everything you need at checkout organized and at the ready. It's where you'll store your credit and debit cards, loyalty programs, offers, and even that stack of gift cards from last year's birthday.
If you bank with Bank of America in the U.S. or a Google partner like Mbank in Poland, you can set up Google Pay right from your bank's app without having to even install Google Pay. Once that's set up, you can pay with Google Pay online and out in the real world.
You can use Google Pay on transit in cities such as Kiev, London, and Portland (with more coming soon), and stop worrying about your pass.
Like all Google products, Google Pay comes with security protections to safeguard your account and personal data from security threats.
The new app also maintains the features of the Android Pay app. You'll still get all your bank's perks and protections, plus an extra layer of security, since Google Pay doesn't share your actual card number when you pay in stores.
If you live in the U.S. or the UK, you'll be able to use it to send and request money within the next few months. In the meantime, the Wallet app is now called Google Pay Send.