By Chris Bradley
Google has confirmed that it will be launching its new ‘Wallet’. This is a system which will allow US users to buy goods and services using money digitally. The US launch has been sparked European phone providers such as Orange and O2 to prepare for the service as well, although no talk has been made about launching in Europe.
The system is expected to change travel, because people will no longer need foreign currency to buy things. It will save the need for changing money, buying travellers cheques or getting a prepaid credit card, although it will take time before it can be used in all countries and all stores. It is the type of technology that is likely to spread fast though because of the convenience of it. The app for mobile phones will allow people to purchase goods online and offline, storing a selection of card details. Users will be sent offers that can be stored in the app and details of how much they have spent will also be recorded.
At this stage it will only support a Google prepaid card and a Citi Mastercard and will work whenever there is a Paypass installed in a retailer. Many retailers are ready for the launch with their loyalty schemes working with this new technology. At present it will only work for Nexus S4G phones but it is expected that it will soon move on to many others. Paypal are allegedly suing Google for stealing the technology for the system.
