- Google's latest Gmail release now lets users send or request money
- New iOS app update integrates payment feature when drafting an email
- Funds are transferred to anyone with an email address via Google Pay
Internet giant Google has become the latest to toss a hat in the digital money transfer ring, offering payment services through its Gmail app for iOS.
The recent Gmail update now lets users send or request a money transfer when composing an email in the mobile app.
According to Google, the feature uses Google Pay to make transfers to anyone with an email address, as each payment is managed as an email attachment. There is also a snooze feature that lets Gmail app users put off emails for later or set a custom time and date to manage transactions.
For now, only Google Pay account holders can access the Gmail payment function. PayPal, Apple Pay and other services are not yet supported.
The iOS update puts Google in the same company as PayPal, Square Cash, Venmo and other mobile payments apps aiming to make both domestic and international money transfers easier, cheaper and more convenient for consumers. These digital payment methods can be used in a variety of ways, from splitting a check after a night out to reconciling a rental payment or utility bill.
Gmail payments aren't the only new development Google announced this week.
The company also revealed plans for an Android update that will deliver several new features to users, including a beta testing opportunity for select phone owners, as well as the renamed Google AI research division that demonstrates the company's plans to explore artificial intelligence.
Google's new Gmail payments capability went live to iOS users this week.
