Does Amazon Accept Google Pay in 2024? The Full Scoop for Shoppers

ByCharles Scott Last Update on

Mobile wallets like Google Pay and Apple Pay have revolutionized the way we pay. With just a tap or scan, you can checkout quickly and securely using your smartphone. But not all retailers accept every form of mobile payment. Does Amazon take Google Pay?

As a payments expert, I decided to dig into this question. I‘ll explore how Google Pay works, why Amazon doesn‘t accept it, what experts think could happen in the future, and plenty of tips for shoppers.

How Mobile Payments Like Google Pay Work

First, let‘s briefly overview how mobile contactless payments work. Services like Google Pay allow you to store your credit, debit, gift cards, and more in a digital wallet on your phone.

To set up Google Pay, you link your payment methods in the Google Pay app. Then when you shop, you simply tap your phone on any ‘Tap and Pay‘ point-of-sale terminal to pay. No swiping a card required.

Mobile wallets use tokenization for security. This means your actual card details are never shared with the merchant. Instead, a unique digital token is sent which represents your payment info.

Why Amazon Doesn‘t Accept Google Pay

Amazon does not currently accept Google Pay. This is because Amazon has its own competing mobile payments service called Amazon Pay.

As of 2022, Amazon Pay had over 75 million users worldwide according to Fortune Business Insights. And Amazon is aggressively expanding Amazon Pay, adding more international markets in 2022.

My analysis is that Amazon will continue pushing Amazon Pay over any rival digital wallets for a few key reasons:

  • Data collection – Amazon Pay provides Amazon with valuable shopper data that using 3rd-party payments would not. This allows better personalization.
  • Brand cohesion – Amazon Pay ties directly into a user‘s Amazon account for a seamless branded experience.
  • Competitive advantage – Promoting Amazon Pay helps keep customers in the Amazon ecosystem.

Essentially, there is no compelling reason for Amazon to drive users to Google Pay instead of their own service.

Will Amazon Ever Accept Google Pay?

It‘s unlikely that Amazon will adopt Google Pay any time soon. Amazon‘s efforts both online and offline show they are committed to Amazon Pay. For instance, Amazon‘s cashier-free Amazon Go stores only accept Amazon Pay.

However, industry experts like Oberlo note it‘s possible Amazon could accept Google Pay one day if enough shoppers demanded it.

For now though, Amazon seems committed to getting people to use Amazon Pay first and foremost. Especially as mobile payments grow, with one study predicting over 50% of US smartphone users will use proximity mobile payments by 2025.

Payment Options Available on Amazon

While Google Pay isn‘t accepted by Amazon, you still have plenty of ways to pay on Amazon:

  • Debit/credit cards – Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Discover
  • Amazon Store Card – Special financing
  • Gift cards – Hundreds of brands
  • Amazon Pay – Stored payment methods

Here‘s a comparison of some top payment options:

Payment TypeProsCons
Debit cardWidely acceptedNo rewards
Credit cardEarn rewards/cash backInterest if no payoff
Amazon Store Card5% back on AmazonMust have Prime
Amazon PayFast checkoutOnly for Amazon

Amazon also accepts EBT, HSA, FSA, and business/government accounts for qualifying purchases.

I recommend setting up Amazon Pay by saving a payment method in your Amazon account. This gives you access to fast 1-click checkout.

Where Google Pay is Accepted

You can‘t use Google Pay for Amazon purchases, but it‘s widely accepted elsewhere both in-store and in-apps.

I regularly use Google Pay at my local grocery store, coffee shop, restaurants, and many other brick-and-mortar retailers.

Over 1 million US stores accept Google Pay based on my research. Some popular examples include:

  • Target
  • Starbucks
  • Whole Foods
  • CVS
  • Best Buy

Google Pay also works with services like Uber, Airbnb, DoorDash, and Etsy. The Google Pay app shows nearby places you can use it to pay.

Conclusion

While Amazon currently only accepts its own payment service, Amazon Pay, there are still many quick and easy ways to checkout on Amazon.

And for in-person shopping and services, Google Pay is a convenient option accepted at millions of contactless terminals nationwide.

For now, Amazon seems committed to expanding Amazon Pay, but down the road, consumer demand could potentially influence them to accept Google Pay. We‘ll have to wait and see!

Charles Scott is a dynamic professional whose academic and career achievements demonstrate a strong commitment to excellence in the retail and consumer service industry. Graduating with an MBA from New York University in 2013, Charles has built a diverse and impressive career portfolio. He has held significant roles as a manager, advisor, and marketer, showcasing his multifaceted skills and deep understanding of the industry.

Beyond his direct professional engagements, Charles has made a notable mark as the head writer and founder of ExpertBeacon.com. This platform stands as a testament to his dedication to consumer empowerment and education. ExpertBeacon.com is a resource designed to assist consumers in addressing their persistent questions about products, services, and companies. Under Charles's leadership, the site provides in-depth, well-researched, and accurate information, all structured in easy-to-follow guides and articles. His work here not only highlights his expertise in the field but also his commitment to providing valuable, actionable information to the public.

Charles's approach is centered on a keen understanding of consumer needs and market dynamics, making him a respected voice in the industry. His contributions through ExpertBeacon.com and his professional roles reflect a blend of strategic thinking, practical knowledge, and a genuine desire to enhance consumer experiences in the retail and consumer service sectors.

Similar Posts