Paying via Gmail? Google integrates it with Wallet

Users of Google's Gmail can now make payments securely and directly via Google Wallet, after the Internet giant integrated the two services.

Google Wallet product manager Travis Green said the integration allows one to "quickly and securely" send money to friends and family "directly within Gmail."

"Paying back your friends is now as simple as sending an email, whether you’re chipping in for lunch or reimbursing your roommate for your share of the rent," Green said in a blog post.

Green said sending money via Gmail would be free if the user's bank account is linked to Google Wallet. Low fees apply to sending money using a linked credit or debit card.

He added a Gmail user can start sending money by hovering over the attachment paperclip, and clicking the $ icon to attach money.

For now, Green said sending money via Gmail is available only on the desktop, and users of phones and laptops may have to use Google Wallet at wallet.google.com.

"You will need to have set up Google Wallet to send and receive money, and Google Wallet Purchase Protection covers you 100% against eligible unauthorized payments," he added.

Green said the new feature will be rolled out over the coming months to Gmail users in the United States who are over 18.

However, others can get earlier access "if your friends have the feature and send money to you." — LBG, GMA News