(4 votes, average: 4.75 out of 5)
Well here it is. The long awaited Google Wallet went live today, and will be pushed to owners of the Sprint Nexus S 4G phones in an over-the-air software update, meaning it will only be available to a very select few people in the US this week. It’s expected to grab momentum quickly, but at the same time, I know there is a huge debate around its relevance and potential scale. But perhaps, the best thing to do is just watch the video…
Yes, NFC is stupidly limited right now, but, I’ll admit, it’s potential is vast and from the quick Google demo video, it looks like there is some serious power to be delivered by Google Wallet, and interestingly, a new way for Google to control your money via their own virtual Pre-Paid Mastercard that will come by default with the app.
The biggest question still on my mind, is will Apple release NFC in the iPhone 5? If so, they’ll retain the edge, but I just wonder if Google’s going to own that space before Apple even gets there.
What happens if you lose your phone: how is that catered for in terms of security and also getting a new phone set up again?
Great question mate! Wonder if there is a “pin” number or something you need to open the app perhaps?
^ yes, Google has a PIN feature as a layer of security….
One thing that sucks about the g-walet right now is that its restricted to only the Sprint network and the Nexus S phone for now..Google didn’t say when they are opening it up to others…
I think a better mobile wallet option is by Moneto…moneto works is network independent and works on more android phones since it uses a nfc microSD and app..check them out at www(dot)moneto(dot)me
Or the BMO Paypass wallet from Bank of Montreal is good too since it just uses a NFC sticker and banking app
There is a pin. Did you watch the video?
I missed the pin? Most of the video shows seamless tap and go? Shall re-watch now
Just considered for the first time that my next phone might be Android rather than iPhone.
This is such a great idea, there’s very little need to carry a big wallet most of the time.