Google Play has introduced Venmo as a payment option in the United States. Additionally, it is experimenting with cash payment methods in other markets.
**TL;DR** Venmo is now an accepted payment method on Google Play in the US for apps, games, subscriptions, and creator tips, joining PayPal, Cash App, and various cards. In 2025, consumers are projected to spend $167 billion on in-app purchases (an increase of 10.6%). Google is also testing cash payments through Pending Transactions in select markets.
Google Play has started accepting Venmo in the United States, allowing users to link their Venmo accounts in the payment methods section of the Google Play settings. This enables them to use their Venmo wallet, connected bank accounts, or cards for payments on apps, games, subscriptions, and tips for creators in supported apps. This new feature complements existing payment options like PayPal, Cash App, and major credit card networks such as Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, and JCB. For users already utilizing Venmo, it simplifies the process by eliminating the need to add yet another card to different platforms.
The introduction of Venmo reflects the significant growth of the app economy. According to Sensor Tower, consumers are estimated to spend over $167 billion on in-app purchases across iOS and Google Play in 2025, marking a 10.6% increase from the previous year. Google added PayPal to its platform back in 2014 and has consistently expanded its range of payment methods, including UPI in India and carrier billing with over 170 carriers globally. Each new payment option aims to minimize the instances where potential buyers abandon their purchases due to complicated payment processes.
A noteworthy development is occurring outside the US. Google has rolled out Pending Transactions in supported markets, allowing users to pay for digital products with cash, bank transfers, or direct debit. Instead of inputting card details, users select an alternative payment option during checkout, receive a payment code, and can then pay in cash at a participating store. The purchase typically completes within about 10 minutes, though processing may take up to 48 hours. Refunds are issued as Google Play credit instead of cash.
This initiative focuses on individuals without credit cards, who still make up a significant portion of internet users in many regions. Although Google’s billing system for the Play Store has faced criticism for its fees and limitations on alternative payment methods, the company's initiative to introduce more payment options is a move away from such gatekeeping practices. Addressing the challenges of enabling cash payments for digital transactions is more complex than simply adding Venmo, yet it presents greater opportunities for growth. Google aims not only to expand payment options but also to eliminate payment barriers that deter purchases.
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Google Play has introduced Venmo as a payment option in the United States. Additionally, it is experimenting with cash payment methods in other markets.
Google Play now allows Venmo for payments on apps, games, subscriptions, and creator tips in the United States. In developing countries, users have the option to pay in cash at a local store.
