Google Tests 'Soundpod by Google Pay' for UPI Payments in India, Collaborating with ToneTag

Media reports indicate that Google is actively working on a Soundpod for the Indian market, providing a distinctive sound alert for UPI-based payment confirmations, similar to existing options from Paytm and PhonePe.

Google is piloting a new device called "Soundpod by Google Pay" in India to enhance the experience of UPI payments for both merchants and customers. This development comes amidst the ever-growing popularity of UPI, which processed a record 7.82 billion transactions worth ₹12.82 trillion in December 2022.

Google Introduces 'Soundpod by Google Pay' for UPI Payment Confirmation"

Pilot Phase in North India, Including Delhi

TechCrunch reports that Google is currently testing its 'Soundpod by Google Pay' in a pilot phase, partnering with select shopkeepers in North India, particularly in Delhi. This strategic move aims to explore the effectiveness and user experience of this innovative payment confirmation solution.

Collaboration with ToneTag for Soundpod Development

The Soundpods are reportedly being developed by ToneTag, a company backed by Amazon. This collaboration underlines Google's commitment to enhancing the digital payment experience through innovative solutions.

Here's how the 'Soundpod by Google Pay" works?

1. Merchants link their Google Pay for Business account to a unique QR code displayed on the Soundpod.

2. Customers use any UPI app to scan the QR code to initiate the payment.

3. Upon successful completion of the transaction, the Soundpod emits an audible notification, alerting the merchant about the payment.

Experimenting with Convenience: Google's Statement on the Pilot

A Google spokesperson shared with IANS, "We are experimenting with several different solutions to make digital payments more convenient and intuitive for users and merchants." This statement underscores Google's dedication to exploring diverse avenues to improve the digital payment ecosystem.

Features of 'Soundpod by Google Pay'

The 'Soundpod by Google Pay' is designed to accompany a QR code linked to a merchant's Google Pay for Business account. Users can easily make UPI-based payments by scanning the code, introducing a streamlined and audible confirmation process to the transaction.

Record UPI Transactions in December 2022

Ending 2022 on a high note, UPI transactions reached a record 7.82 billion in December, amounting to Rs 12.82 trillion, as reported by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). This surge represents a 7.12% increase compared to November, highlighting the continued growth and adoption of digital payments in the country.

Conclusion

The pilot program for "Soundpod by Google Pay" signifies Google's commitment to improving the user experience within the Indian digital payments landscape. With UPI transactions reaching new heights, innovative solutions like Soundpod have the potential to further simplify and expedite the payment process for both merchants and customers.

As the pilot progresses and Google gathers feedback, we can expect to see further developments and potential nationwide rollout of Soundpod by Google Pay, contributing to the continued growth and adoption of UPI in India.