In a significant move to deepen its footprint in India's digital payments ecosystem, Google Pay has unveiled a suite of new features, headlined by the launch of a fully digital, co-branded credit card. Developed in partnership with Axis Bank, the new offering is named the Google Pay Flex Axis Bank Credit Card.
Google Pay FLEX: A UPI-Powered Credit Card
Built on the RuPay network, the FLEX card uniquely merges the convenience of Unified Payments Interface (UPI) with traditional credit. Users can link this card directly to their UPI accounts within the Google Pay app. Once linked, they can make payments to merchants simply by scanning any QR code, with the transaction amount being charged to their credit line.
A standout feature of the FLEX card is its instant rewards system. Unlike the common practice where banks credit rewards or cashback at the end of the monthly billing cycle, Google Pay's new card provides these benefits immediately after a transaction. The application process is fully digital and swift. Eligible users can apply for and receive a virtual version of the card within minutes, directly inside the Google Pay app.
"Available exclusively on Google Pay, users will be able to apply for the Flex card at zero cost from anywhere and start transacting within minutes," stated Google. "We are starting to roll this out today and look forward to bringing this to all users in the coming months. Interested users can join the waitlist directly within the Google Pay app."
Pocket Money: Teaching Financial Responsibility
Alongside the credit card launch, Google Pay introduced a feature called "Pocket Money", designed to help parents teach children about financial management in a digital age. Built on the "UPI Circle" framework, this tool gives parents supervised control over their child's spending.
Parents can use Pocket Money in two primary modes. They can set a monthly spending limit of up to Rs 15,000. Alternatively, they can opt for an approval mode where they must authorize every individual transaction request initiated by the child. Parents receive instant notifications for every transaction made, ensuring full transparency and oversight.
New Tools for Small Merchants
Google Pay also rolled out enhancements aimed at empowering small businesses and local merchants. To help shops build credibility, the platform is introducing a unified customer ratings system. Customers will now be prompted to rate their experience immediately after completing a transaction.
Furthermore, a simplified generative AI-powered Google Ads experience is being integrated into the Google Pay for Business app. This feature will allow small business owners to create, preview, and launch advertising campaigns in a matter of minutes, leveraging the power of artificial intelligence to craft effective marketing.
This multi-pronged announcement underscores Google Pay's strategy to cater to a wide spectrum of users in India—from consumers seeking flexible credit and parents managing allowances to small merchants looking to grow their business digitally.
