From Tech Republic - “In the mobile world, fewer technologies are more prominent right now than mobile payments that use near field communication (NFC).
NFC allows two devices with the technology to establish radio communication and exchange information. Commonly, this is used to allow smartphone users to purchase goods by sending payment information via NFC.
One of the biggest bumps in NFC popularity came from Apple's introduction of Apple Pay in October 2014. Google, however, introduced its own version of a mobile payment using NFC called Google Wallet back in 2011. The service was a hit with Google fans, but didn't initially take off with the general public.
"I would say probably, since it was introduced, it's been coasting," said Gartner analyst Penny Gillespie.
Google Wallet hasn't experienced any dramatic dips, nor has it seen any spikes in interest or use. As mobile takes over more of our daily lives, Google stands to benefit heavily from making Google Wallet the go-to mobile payment system. But, there are still a few challenges facing it.
According to Jordan McKee, an analyst at 451 Research, Google's primary challenge is its name. The search giant is just that, a search giant, so most of its revenue comes from advertising. McKee said this can make merchants wary of Google's intentions.”
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