Google today updated its Google Wallet for Android and iOS with the ability to send money to phone numbers. You can now download the new version of the app from Google Play and Apple's App Store (it's rolling out in the coming days, so don't worry if you can't find it).
Until now, you had to give Google Wallet your email address, but with the new update, you can send money to anyone in your contact list who has a phone number.
The best part is that the person you're sending money to doesn't need to have the app. When you send money, the recipient will receive a text message with what Google a secure link. When they click on it, it will allow them to enter their debit card number and the money will be transferred to their bank account in minutes!
That's the only new feature in the new version. The changelog states: "We've made sending money even easier. Now you can find and send money to anyone with a phone number." There are also some bug fixes and visual improvements.
The previous Google Wallet update before this one added improved contact suggestions (so you see the people you send money to most often first), a security feature that lets you lock the app with the tap of a button, and the ability to connect a second bank account.
With the launch of Android Pay, Google has redefined Google Wallet as a P2P payment app. The app is slowly but surely gaining traction and more and more people are giving it a try. Sending money via text message will definitely give it more momentum.
