The holiday season is fast approaching, and with it comes the inevitable flurry of shopping. Whether you prefer browsing in-store or online, Google is rolling out new features in Google Lens and Google Pay to streamline your shopping experience and make informed purchasing decisions.
Screenshots of Google Lens being used for in-store shopping.
Google Lens, which already handles a staggering 20 billion visual searches monthly, is becoming even more retail-focused. Approximately 20% of these searches are shopping-related, highlighting the growing trend of using visual search for product discovery and comparison. With this latest update, Google Lens provides real-time insights tailored to your in-store location, empowering you to make smarter purchasing choices.
In-Store Insights with Google Lens
Simply snap a photo of a product, and Google Lens will leverage its advanced AI image recognition to provide a wealth of information. You can instantly access product details, compare prices with other retailers, check in-stock availability, and even browse user reviews. This feature is powered by the extensive Google Shopping Graph, boasting over 45 billion product listings, real-time inventory data, and the cutting-edge capabilities of Google’s Gemini models.
This functionality directly addresses a common consumer pain point: the uncertainty that often leads to abandoned purchases. With over 72% of Americans using their smartphones while shopping, and more than half admitting to leaving stores empty-handed due to indecision, Google Lens aims to bridge this gap by providing shoppers with the confidence to make informed choices on the spot. Currently, this feature supports beauty products, toys, and electronics at participating retailers who share their inventory data with Google. To access it, simply tap the Lens icon within the Google app search bar on both Android and iOS devices. Note that location services must be enabled.
Secure and Flexible Payments with Google Pay
Google Pay using virtual card numbers.
Beyond enhanced product discovery, Google Pay is also getting a boost with expanded payment options and enhanced security features. Building on its existing buy now, pay later partnerships with Affirm and Zip, Google Pay is adding Afterpay to its roster, with Klarna slated to join in 2025.
For increased security and fraud prevention, Google Pay’s virtual card feature, which masks your actual card number during online transactions, is expanding its support. Previously available for American Express, Capital One, and Citi cardholders, this feature will soon include Discover cards.
Enhanced Fraud Protection for Merchants
Google is also piloting a new service aimed at bolstering fraud protection for merchants. This innovative solution helps businesses accurately identify and prevent fraudulent transactions while simultaneously minimizing the risk of blocking legitimate purchases often mistaken for fraud. This adds another layer of security to the online shopping ecosystem, benefitting both consumers and businesses.
Conclusion
Google’s latest updates to Lens and Pay are poised to revolutionize the holiday shopping experience. By providing real-time product insights and secure, flexible payment options, these enhancements empower consumers to make informed decisions and enjoy a more seamless shopping journey. For businesses, the enhanced fraud protection tools offer increased security and peace of mind. These innovations underscore Google’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance the retail landscape for everyone.
