An iOS version of Google Wallet launches today on the Apple App Store, bringing the search giant's recently revamped mobile wallet to iPhone devices.
The Android version of the app received an overhaul this week, reducing its reliance on Near Field Communication. Since Apples mobile devices do not include NFC contactless payments technology, the redesigned Google Wallet can more effectively be used by iPhone owners. The launch of the iPhone version comes a day after Apple released its latest mobile operating system refresh, iOS 7.
The iPhone version of Google Wallet includes the same person-to-person payments, loyalty card redemption and merchant offer features as the Android app, Google said in a blog post.
Google Wallet currently comes preinstalled on 14 smartphone and two tablet models that both utilize Googles Android mobile operating system and are enabled with Near Field Communication hardware. Consumers have been able to use the app to make contactless payments in physical stores by tapping their devices at point of sale terminals.
Google Wallet can also be used to make desktop- and mobile-based online payments on websites and mobile apps that integrate its Buy with Google feature. Person-to-person payments can also be made using Gmail, Googles email platform.
Google Wallets reach has also been limited by the number of wireless carriers that allow the mobile app on devices sold to their customers. Fourth-ranked Sprint and its Virgin Mobile USA and Boost Mobile subsidiaries support Google Wallet, along with fifth-ranked carrier U.S. Cellular, which agreed to sell 10% of its business to Sprint last year. Mobile virtual network operator Zact Mobile, which subleases Sprints wireless network, also offers Google Wallet-enabled phones.
