A new push into everyday credit is shaping Google’s next phase in India’s payments market. The company has introduced Flex by Google Pay, a UPI linked credit card launched in partnership with Axis Bank, aimed at users who rely heavily on UPI but have limited access to traditional credit cards.
The card is issued digitally through the Google Pay app and runs on the RuPay network. It is designed to offer flexible repayment options, especially for first time credit users, in a market where UPI usage is widespread but credit card adoption remains relatively low.
“It’s the same users getting more and more credit,” said Sharath Bulusu, senior director of product management for Google Pay. He added that the flexible repayment structure is meant to reduce billing related stress for new users. “We think we now understand the problem, the space and the user well enough to solve something uniquely for them,” he said.
Alongside Flex, Google Pay is also rolling out Pocket Money, a feature built on UPI Circle. The tool allows parents to manage and monitor their children’s digital spending while retaining control over funds.
“With UPI Circle, the money stays in the parent’s account until it is spent,” Bulusu said. The feature is positioned as a way to help families introduce structured digital payments while building confidence around responsible spending.
Together, Flex by Google Pay and Pocket Money reflect Google’s broader strategy to expand access to credit and financial tools through familiar payment behaviours. By embedding these features within UPI driven experiences, the company aims to support greater financial confidence among users without moving them away from the platforms they already use daily.
Also read: Viksit Workforce for a Viksit Bharat
Do Follow: The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News LinkedIn Account | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Facebook | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Youtube | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Twitter
About us:
The Mainstream is a premier platform delivering the latest updates and informed perspectives across the technology business and cyber landscape. Built on research-driven, thought leadership and original intellectual property, The Mainstream also curates summits & conferences that convene decision makers to explore how technology reshapes industries and leadership. With a growing presence in India and globally across the Middle East, Africa, ASEAN, the USA, the UK and Australia, The Mainstream carries a vision to bring the latest happenings and insights to 8.2 billion people and to place technology at the centre of conversation for leaders navigating the future.
