Ditching that bulky wallet for a virtual one just became a more viable option. The official Google Blog proclaimed the launch of the Google Wallet app to enable better shopping convenience.
This app can store essentials like credit cards, offers and gift cars without the bulk. It will provide users with many other features that a normal wallet cannot afford. When users tap their phone to make a payment, things like offers are automatically redeemed or loyalty points earned, if any.
Initially the app will support Citi MasterCard and a Google Prepaid Card. Google Offers can be redeemed via NFC or by displaying the barcode while checking out. Many merchants seem to be in favor of this app for integrating their offers and loyalty programs.
Google Wallet intends to serve as an open commerce ecosystem and may later come with APIs that will allow co-ordination with many partners. In the initial phase, it can be accessed with a Nexus S 4G available on Sprint.