So, there has been quite a bit of buzz in the Western media about Google Wallet. But why don’t we see anything in Malaysia? Well, because it’s not really available in Malaysia. Here’s the low down.
What is Google Wallet?
Google Wallet is a free online wallet, which stores your credit cards, debit cards, offers, and more. It is the mobile payment system launched by Google in 2011, which is replacing its online payment system known as Google Checkout. Google Checkout has been in use since 2006 but will be discontinued this year.
Google Wallet is built for three purposes:
- Buy in-stores: This refers to having the Google Wallet app on designated android phones, which aims to turn your mobile phone into a virtual wallet to make purchases in actual physical stores. It uses Near Field Communication technology (NFC) to make payments fast and secure. It basically allows users to store credit card information on a smartphone that can then be waved in front of a checkout terminal that is PayPass-enabled. Users can tap on their phones to complete the payment.
- Buy Online: This refers to using your Google Wallet account to purchase something online. This is designed so users do not have to fill in lengthy forms to make online payments using their credit cards. All they have to do is click on the option marked “Buy with Google” to make online payments.
- Send Money: This refers to using your Google Wallet to send money to your friends or family with Gmail.
How much does Google Wallet cost?
Google Wallet is free. Merchants just need to pay the usual card processing fees.
Can we use Google Wallet in Malaysia?
Hm, in very limited ways. Let’s explore the three purposes of Google Wallet in the Malaysian context.
Can you use Google Wallet in actual stores in Malaysia? No.
We can’t use the Google Wallet in actual physical stores in Malaysia because it is available only in the U.S.A. Also, the app is available only with certain U.S.A mobile devices, mobile carriers, and only for android-based phones. Additionally, the Google Wallet app does not work with any credit / debit cards issued outside the U.S.A.
Can you use Google Wallet to make purchases online in Malaysia? Yes.
For online transactions, Google Wallet is available in many countries, including Malaysia. Anyone in Malaysia who has a valid Google account can register for the Google Wallet service. Unfortunately, there is not many websites you can use Google Wallet to make purchases.
Here is a list of websites you can use Google Wallet to make purchase online. As you can see, there isn’t much of a selection, but it’s better than nothing.
Can you use Google Wallet to Send Money in Gmail in Malaysia? No.
This money transfer service will be released in the U.S.A. soon to those who are above 18 years of age. It is unclear when it would become available in Malaysia.
What do you think of Google Wallet? Post a thought in the comments below. Also, stay in touch with us by registering for our free e-newsletter here.
SEE ALSO: Google Chromecast in Malaysia: A Personal Review
Photo credit: Andrew Currie / Foter.com / CC BY-SA
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I once rent movies on YouTube using Google Wallet with a Maybank Visa Debit card. But with the help of Spotflux to change the IP address though. Tried it recently, won’t work.lol
That would be really cool when it’s fully released in Malaysia. It would be nice to be able to just use your phone to make purchases at stores and not care a bunch of credit cards