Google has announced a new update to its pay service that will allow users to use Google Pay in conjunction with prepaid virtual travel passes. While Google Pay can already be used to pay for public transit in certain cities, including London, Kiev and Portland, those payments require a connection to a bank card connected with Google Pay. This new service is set to leverage Google Pay as a digital wallet the will work with prepaid tickets and passes.
Google's prepaid virtual travel passes will begin in Las Vegas and will allow users the chance to buy a ticket for the Las Vegas Monorail. Users will be able to purchase a ticket through the transit company's website, whether it be a one-trip ride or a seven-day pass, and can complete the transaction using Google Pay. The ticket will then be saved in the user's digital wallet and can be tapped at the stations terminal to complete the transaction.
Prepaid Virtual Travel Passes
Google Is Testing Out Virtual Travel Passes Through Google Pay
Trend Themes
1. Prepaid Virtual Passes - The development of prepaid passes paves the way for a shift from physical to digital ticketing, with many opportunities for mobile payment providers.
2. Digital Wallets - The integration of Google Pay into virtual travel passes presents opportunities for other digital wallet providers to offer similar services.
3. Contactless Ticketing - Contactless ticketing using virtual passes has the potential to simplify the transit experience and reduce the need for physical tickets and cash handling.
Industry Implications
1. Mobile Payments - Virtual travel passes provide an opportunity for mobile payment providers to expand their services and compete with traditional payment methods.
2. Transportation - The integration of virtual travel passes with digital wallets presents opportunities for transportation companies to streamline their ticketing systems and improve the customer experience.
3. Digital Wallet Providers - The development of prepaid virtual passes presents a potential market for digital wallet providers to expand their services beyond traditional payment transactions.