Google Glass May Allow Voice-Activated Payments

Google is testing a way to use its Wallet on Google Glass through verbal commands, according to a report by TechCrunch.

Google is internally testing a service that would allow users to transfer funds via Google Wallet by asking the Google Glass headset to "send money," according to the report, which cited a source close to Google. Google offers a similar P2P service through Gmail, which allows users to send funds as attachments to emails.

Google's headset, which can be worn alone or attached to a pair of eyeglasses, accepts voice commands and touch-controlled gestures through a panel worn over the right ear. Google Glass is a natural fit for Google Wallet, especially since Google requires all prospective Glass owners to have a Google Wallet account before they can purchase the headset.

While Google Glass is still in limited release, many companies have tested its capabilities for payments. Companies such as LevelUp and MasterCard have experimented with ways for merchants to use Glass for payment acceptance, and startups like Eaze and RedBottle Design are developing ways to for consumers to initiate payments using Google Glass commands.

A Google Glass update would the latest in a series of changes for Google Wallet. Since Google Wallet's release, the product has shed unnecessary features and undergone redesigns to improve its appeal to consumers, banks and merchants.

Google did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The company charges 2.9% for Wallet transactions, or $0.30, whichever is higher.