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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Google Wallet and ISIS Mobile Wallet?

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Google Wallet and ISIS Mobile Wallet, also known as Softcard, were both mobile payment methods that used the e-wallet concept. However, there were some differences between the two:

  1. Platform: Google Wallet was based on smartphones running the Android operating system, while ISIS Mobile Wallet focused on an open standard for mobile payments and aimed to work on multiple platforms.
  2. Open Standard: ISIS was more focused on an open standard for mobile payments, while Google Wallet was primarily based on Android operating system.
  3. Parentage: Google Wallet was developed by Google, while ISIS Mobile Wallet was a joint venture between AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon.
  4. Security Measures: Both mobile wallets stored credit card details on the smartphone and aimed to use passwords to lock e-wallets. However, Google Wallet claimed to have a secure chip that stored all credit card information securely in the cloud.
  5. Debut Year: Google Wallet was announced in 2011 and demonstrated in early 2012, while ISIS Mobile Wallet was officially announced in November 2010.

In 2015, Softcard (formerly ISIS Mobile Wallet) was discontinued, and Google acquired certain assets and intellectual property from the company. AT&T, T-Mobile US, and Verizon pledged support for Google Wallet, which was later succeeded by Android Pay.

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  • What is the Difference Between Google Wallet and ISIS Mobile Wallet?
  • Comparative Table: Google Wallet vs ISIS Mobile Wallet

    • Comparative Table: Google Wallet vs ISIS Mobile Wallet

    Here is a table highlighting the main differences between Google Wallet and ISIS Mobile Wallet:

    Feature Google Wallet ISIS Mobile Wallet
    Platform Android-only Open standard for mobile payments
    Security Secure chip in the device stores credit card information Card information is safe, but no specific mention of a secure chip
    Loyalty Programs Supports 3rd party loyalty programs and electronic redemption Supports 3rd party loyalty programs and electronic redemption
    E-wallet Locking Uses PIN to lock e-wallet Uses PIN to lock e-wallet
    NFC Technology Requires NFC-enabled Android phone for payments NFC-enabled for tap-and-go payments
    Cloud-based Secure Element Google Wallet v3.0 uses Host-based card emulation (HCE) technology, where card-emulation and the Secure Element are separated into different areas No mention of cloud-based Secure Element

    Please note that ISIS Mobile Wallet is now known as Softcard.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.