Google Leads The Pack
California-based tech giant Google is leading the UPI integration. The press was told that Google has completed the testing phase and is now in talks with RBI to integrate UPI in a dedicated application. NPCI MD and CEO, AP Hota quoted, “Quite likely Google would come first, because their testing is more or less complete… We have written to RBI seeking approval just two or three days back,”. Google already has Android Pay, its home-grown mobile wallet application. You can carry your credit and debit cards in your Android smartphone and make payments from your cards using NFC, through Android Pay. Google may introduce Android Pay here in India through UPI integration.
Uber To Go UPI Friendly, Too
Cab hailing service Uber is also looking forward to integrating UPI as a mode of payment. Doing so will make it convenient for the passenger to pay fair and for the drivers to pay Uber through UPI. NPCI MD and CEO, AP Hota told ET, “Since about 60% of these cabs drivers still get paid in cash by customers, UPI payments will help Uber’s drivers make their payments to Uber using UPI.” Uber’s competitor Ola has already started accepting UPI payments since April this year.
Conclusion
UPI (Unified Payments Interface) is a safe and fast way to make payments without even revealing details like your IFSC code or account number. It is easy to use as you can simply ‘Pay to’ or ‘Collect from’ a unique code (Aadhar number, mobile number or Virtual payment address). Integration of UPI across platforms will introduce uniformity and ease of payment. It is also a safer payment option as no details are revealed to anyone during a transaction.
