SoundPod, Google's rival to Paytm Soundbox for Google Pay transactions is here

In 2023, Google introduced its SoundPod product in a limited pilot. The audio device helps merchants track QR code payments with audio alerts when a payment is received. This is similar to Paytm's Soundbox that too give similar transaction alerts when users make payments on its QR code.

In a blog post, written by Ambarish Kenghe, Vice President, Product, Google Pay, the company said that participating merchants have shared positive feedback, noting it reduces checkout time. "We’re pleased to announce SoundPods will be available for small merchants across India over the coming months, bringing considerable ease and convenience to millions of SMBs," it added. 

Google SoundBox goes mainstreamThis, the company said, is in addition to the slate of consumer and merchant offerings it announced in October 2023 to expand the availability of responsible credit in India. "UPI’s hallmark of seamless interoperability between all elements of the financial system has redefined possibilities not just for India, but equally for the world. In January, we announced a collaboration with NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL) to make UPI payments possible from outside India and to facilitate the adoption of UPI-like frameworks in countries beyond India," the blog added.