Google Pay, which replaces the previous Android Pay and Google Wallet, just got some new features — and Singapore is the second country in the world, after India, to get this new version.
So far, the app’s main use is to make contactless payment at merchants that accept Google Pay. All you need to do is link your credit or debit card to the app, tap and pay.
Now, you can use Google Pay to send money to anyone in Singapore as long as their phone number is registered with PayNow, even if they’re Apple iPhone users.
OCBC customers were the first to be able to send money to those registered with PayNow via Google Pay. Now, the same is allowed for DBS PayLah! and Standard Chartered bank account holders.
In practical terms, it makes it easier to pay and receive money from friends. There’s also a new Groups function where you can split bills within the app — so no excuses for the delay in returning money!
Another new feature is that you can now check movie timings and buy tickets online from Golden Village and Shaw cinemas.
And apparently, ordering food has also been a thing on Google Pay since April 2020 and you can get food delivery or takeout from more than 800 eateries.
What we like is also the Rewards function where you get virtual scratch cards that give you cashback when you make eligible transactions.
How to use: Simply download the app, sign in with your Google account and then add the credit and debit cards you wish to use or link your OCBC, Standard Chartered or DBS PayLah! accounts. You can then use Google Pay to make online payments Paypal-style, or use contactless technology to tap your phone at brick and mortar merchants.
Pros: Easy, convenient and fast to use. Can be used on all mobile operating systems.
Cons: None
Supported banks: American Express, DBS, OCBC, POSB, Standard Chartered, UOB
