eCommerce

So far Google Wallet has been on the sideline.  Well, it just got the call from the coach to check into the game.  Google is rolling out integration between Gmail and Wallet which means that getting and sending money may soon be as easy as sending an email.  This could have far reaching impact on eCommerce — think about selling products or services without having to setup an eCommerce website… Meet a client for lunch, get paid on the spot.  Obviously there are products like Square that provide mobile payment services, but they are a separate application and signup.  I wonder how close we are to the demise of credit cards — could be good for financial security — as long as you have a good Gmail password.  What about security in terms of phishing schemes…. Should be very interesting to see how this all pans out.

What do you think?

In the coming weeks and months, a dollar sign will start popping in Gmail accounts of people who already use Google Wallet, and a quick click lets users define the recipient and the amount they’d like to send along as an attachment. Since all of these transactions run through Google Wallet, the usual caveats are in place — sending funds from a connected bank account is totally gratis, but those who prefer to pay with credit or debit cards are subject to an additional 2.9 percent fee tacked on. You also need to be over 18 to take part in the funding fun, though. — Google Folds Wallet Support Into Gmail So You Can Send Money As Attachments (TechCrunch)