Google Tez UPI-based mobile payment app launched in India

Google has set foot into India's digital mobile payment segment with the launch of its new payment app called Tez. The app is powered by government backed payment system UPI (Unified Payments Interface) and works with all major banks including Axis, HDFC Bank, ICICI, State Bank of India and more.

Unlike PayTm, where you have to store the money in the app, UPI backed Tez lets you make payments directly from your bank accounts. Tez supports multiple Indian languages like Hindi, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Marathi, Tamil and Telugu in addition to English. Google has also partnered with Lava, Micromax, Nokia and Panasonic to pre-load Tez app on their upcoming smartphones. 

According to Google Tez is ideal for paying the auto-wallah or sabji-wallah, splitting the bill at dinner or paying on delivery for something purchased online by just using your smartphone. All the payment using Tez are processed directly through your bank account, and each transaction is secured with your UPI PIN, and the app is secured with a Google PIN or fingerprint.

Tez is now available for both Android and iOS devices, and have to be synced with your mobile number (registered with Bank). To get started you'll need to set your Google PIN or screen lock to prevent unauthorized use. Then you have to link your existing bank account, and start sending money to anyone with Cash Mode.

Cash Mode enables you to send or receive money instantly to anyone nearby without without sharing personal details like bank account or phone number. "Bring two phones near each other, hit pay or request, enter your UPI PIN and the payment goes instantly from one bank account to another. Cash Mode is built using our proprietary AQR (Audio QR) technology, which is similar to QR codes, but is more secure." The app also lets you pay your friends and family members or pay for online services like redBus, PVR Cinemas, Domino's Pizza, Dish TV, Jet Airways and more. 

Google says in the coming weeks Tez will support pay via debit and credit cards, and also let you set reminders for recurring bills such as DTH. As part of launch offer, users who invite their friends will get Rs. 51, provided that they make a payment with the app. The offer is valid till April, 1, 2018, and the the limit is Rs. 9,000 per year. There's also a scratch card option if you pay anyone Rs. 50 or more this week, and users will also stand a chance to win Rs. 1 lakh in a lucky draw each week. All the awards will go into your back account.