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Google Exploring Wallet Options Due to Weak Uptake

Mar 21, 2012, 3:24 PM by Eric M. Zeman

Google is looking at ways to make its Google Wallet product more appealing, according to Bloomberg. Citing sources familiar with Google's plans, Bloomberg reports that Google is considering a revenue-share concept in order to earn the support of AT&T and Verizon Wireless. As it stands, Google Wallet is officially only available in the U.S. through two handsets that operate on Sprint's network. Despite Sprint's claim that it will launch up to a dozen new Wallet-capable handsets this year, Google needs the support of more wireless network operators for the service to take off. AT&T and Verizon, (along with T-Mobile and Visa) however, are part of the Isis joint venture, which will also allow consumers to make mobile payments from NFC-equipped devices. If Google can't win over new carrier partners, Bloomberg also reports that it is considering circumventing those carriers and making the system work from the retail side. Verizon confirmed that it is holding a dialog with Google, and Google spokesperson Nate Tyler said, "We continue to work hard to develop Google Wallet and build the partner ecosystem to make it possible for everyone to pay with their phones and get great deals while shopping."

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This forum is closed.

Tofuchong

Mar 21, 2012, 5:51 PM

This is something I will NEVER use

Why even bother with this?

Another location for you to enter your private & confidential information into, another possible security breach, another place where somebody can have access to your finances. I don't care if there are 10 passwords, there is no way I will ever use my phone to make purchases, or provide my phone with my financial information. PayPass on Visa / Mastercard is ALL that you need. NFC, Tap, 5 Seconds, done. ZERO need to allow more security breaches by entering your info on a device that has long range wireless radios.

JBlaze74

I have to agree. I've been against this since I first heard of it months ago. I'll never put my card info into a phone, and if I can avoid it, I won't buy an NFC capable phone. Is it really that difficult to get your wallet out and pull out a card??...
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