Google unveiled the new Google Wallet Card today. This is a physical card that you can use to pay for things using Google Wallet.
Google uses the example of your friend paying you through Google Wallet, and you using the card to pay for groceries.
“Now, you can use the new Google Wallet Card to spend the money instantly, either by purchasing in stores or by withdrawing cash at ATMs, without having to wait for money to transfer from your Google Wallet Balance to your bank account,” explains Google Wallet product manager Sandra Mariano. “The Google Wallet Card is a debit card that lets you quickly access your Wallet Balance, whether you’ve received it from a friend or added it directly from a linked bank account or credit/debit card.”
The card can be used anywhere that accepts MasterCard in the U.S.
“And don’t forget, there are many ways of spending your Wallet Balance in addition to spending it with the Google Wallet Card,” says Mariano. “You can use your Wallet Balance to send money to friends, purchase on Google Play, YouTube and other products, tap and pay in stores, or transfer money to your bank account.”
When you use the card, you’ll get notifications on your phone about the transactions.
The card is free for users, and there are no annual fees. You can order one from your Google Wallet app (via an upcoming update) or from your Google Wallet account online.
On a related note, Google Wallet has added new loyalty programs from Amtrak, Avis, California Pizza Kitchen, Orbitz, The Body Shop and Walgreens.