Google's mobile payment system has a convoluted history, marked by several rebrands and feature changes involving Google Wallet and Google Pay. Currently, Google Wallet primarily serves as a digital wallet for storing and using payment cards, loyalty programs, and passes for contactless payments. However, its peer-to-peer (P2P) money transfer function has been discontinued in most regions.

The P2P transfer feature, previously integrated into Google Pay, is now limited to Singapore and India. Users elsewhere must utilize alternative services like Venmo or PayPal for sending money to individuals.

The Google Pay/Wallet Saga:

Google's inconsistent management of overlapping services is evident in the history of Google Pay and Google Wallet. Launched in 2011, Google Wallet initially focused on P2P transfers and included a reloadable physical debit card. With the rise of NFC tap-to-pay technology, Android Pay emerged in 2015, eventually merging with Google Wallet to become Google Pay in 2018.

A significant 2020 Google Pay update introduced P2P transfers, similar to Venmo. However, in 2022, the NFC mobile payment aspect was separated, reintroducing the "Google Wallet" app. Finally, in 2024, Google Pay was decommissioned in all but Singapore and India, leaving Google Wallet as the sole remaining service.

Google Wallet's Current Functionality:

Google Wallet functions as a digital wallet, enabling users to store and utilize various cards and passes on their Android devices. This includes credit/debit cards for contactless payments, loyalty cards, transit passes, tickets, and even vaccination records. Its primary use is contactless payments in physical stores and online checkouts. Online, look for Google Pay or Google Wallet buttons during checkout. In stores, compatible contactless readers display the Apple Wallet, Google Wallet/Pay, or tap-to-pay symbol.

Google Wallet's Android exclusivity stems from Apple's restrictions on third-party apps accessing the device's tap-to-pay capabilities. Functionally, however, Apple Pay and Google Pay offer similar capabilities and acceptance.

The removal of P2P transfers from Google Wallet in most countries is a significant drawback, particularly when compared to Apple Pay's "Apple Cash" feature, allowing iPhone users convenient P2P transfers via iMessage or the Wallet app.

Sending Money to Friends and Family:

Google Pay's P2P functionality, akin to Venmo, persists only in Singapore and India. If you reside in one of these countries, follow these steps:

1. Open the Google Pay app.
2. Locate the recipient under "People" and tap their contact. If not listed:
   1. Tap " New Payment."
   2. Search using the contact's name, phone number, or email address.
   3. Select the recipient.
   4. Tap "Pay," verifying the details.
3. Tap "Next." Add an optional note.
4. Choose the payment source or add a new account.
5. Tap "Proceed to Pay."

For users outside Singapore and India, alternative services like Venmo, PayPal, or Cash App are necessary for P2P transfers.

Related: 10 Google Wallet Features You Should Be Using Posts: 8

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