If you had to choose one, the first is probably the best option. Even if you’re not clued up with the ins and outs of the latest version of Windows or the latest Apple operating system, it is something easy to grasp.
Features of Google Wallet
Simple
The premise of Google Wallet is simple, it is a space where users can store debit cards, credit cards and even loyalty cards in one handy place – their mobile phone. You can make a payment by simply tapping your phone on the correct PayPass-enabled terminal.Effectively, this turns your phone into a wallet – which, unsurprisingly, is where the name comes from. Instead of walking around with two things – a phone and a wallet – you will walk around with one. This is handy for someone where pocket space is at a premium – people in hot pants, for instance.
For the forgetful, it may just make one thing in your pocket all the more valuable and all the more of a disaster should it be lost.
Who
Not everyone can use Google Wallet at the moment. First, you need to make sure you have the right device. They are mainly Samsung and you will be able to find a full list on the relevant Google site. If you live outside of the US, unfortunately you cannot use Google Wallet – similarly, Wallet will only work on phones purchased in the US.
Cards and shops
In August of 2012, google announced that Wallet would support all major credit cards, including MasterCard, Visa, Discover and American Express. But it was later announced by American Express that they had never agreed to take part in the Google Wallet programme.A selection of the stores that accept Google Wallet as a form of payment includes American Eagle Outfitters, Bloomingdales, Foot Locker, Macy’s, Subway, Radio Shack and Toys ‘R’ Us.
Google Wallet also works at MasterCard PayPass points.
Cost?
Google wallet is free for the foreseeable future – Google is planning to make money from sponsored advertisements through the app Google Shopper.Security
Just like a credit or debit card, Google Wallet requires a PIN identification to be used. There are also additional security measures beyond this. Anyone making a payment will have to key in the code to the phone, once one payment is made, the Wallet is turned off, requiring the PIN to be re-entered for any additional purchases.There are some who have criticised the security measures Google has in place and have shown that some card information is accessible outside the application. There is some dispute as to whether this is actually the case, though.
Privacy
Part of the user agreement signed with Google stipulates that information can be stored by Google but not shared outside the company. There is speculation that transaction details and buying habits could be stored by Google. This could be a very valuable tool for a company, such as Google, that makes its trade through data.
Simon LambAbout the Author:
Guest post contributed by Simon Lamb, a web designer who works closely with a range of different payment methods & ecommerce stores. Simon is currently working a lot with fashion ecommerce website template from ekm powershop. Simon loves to share his knowledge online through his blog and through guest blogging.