Google ready for payments via Google Assistant

Fariha Khan
January 17, 2017
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When it comes to Google Assistant, there is much that Google has promised to present us in future. However, still there is much to be done before we really benefit from the features seen in the original demos. In October 2016, we observed that Assistant was interacting with a number of paid services. Now in the new update to the Google app, it is taking the first step towards it and making it all official.

According to reports, the latest version of the Google app has strings of code that indicate that payments are soon to come to the service.

The strings show that Google Assistant will be able to manage credit cards just like other apps in addition to extending direct links to Google support if assistance is required. The strings talk about a Google support page as well that is not live at present. However, the URL does signify that Assistant on Google Home will have support for payments too.

Payments via Assistant/Home might be used for delivery services or for online shopping. Google Home already supports services such as Uber and it appears that these integrations could be used for stuff like Google Express Shopping.

Additionally, the code proposes that Google Assistant will have “shared devices.” However, it is not obvious what that implies. It would allow payments on a device-by-device basis. It means that just few phones and Google Homes can access payment sources, may be to keep kids from ordering items by mistake.

We don’t yet know when Google will make it all official. Considering the firm has already assured that it will take place, expecting it in near future is not a bad idea.