Google Wallet for Digital Goods API vs Google Play In-app Billing

Question

Wondering whats the difference between Google Wallet Billing APIs and Google Play in-app billing. Whats the advantage of using GooglePlay in-app purchase billing service over Google Wallet billing APIs? I see Wallet APIs also supports Android, then whats the point in using Goole Play IAP app? I'm at a point to implement a cross-platform solution for digital goods purchase in app. My question is what Wallet APIs don't offer over Google Play IAP service?

Answer 1

There are several Google Wallet APIs and they have different applicability. The following may help you.

1. Google Play In-App-Billing - Used for any digital goods purchase from native Android Apps. http://developer.android.com/google/play/billing/index.html

2. Google Wallet Digital Goods API - Used for any digital goods purchase from Web Apps. https://developers.google.com/commerce/wallet/digital/

3. Google Wallet Instant Buy API for Web - Used for physical or digital goods purchase from Web Apps - but you need to have your own payment processing. Google gives you a proxy card to charge. https://developers.google.com/commerce/wallet/instant-buy/web/tutorial

4. Google Wallet Instant Buy API for Android - Used only for physical goods or services purchase from native Android apps - you need to have your own payment processing. Google gives you a proxy card to charge. https://developers.google.com/commerce/wallet/instant-buy/android/tutorial

For 3 and 4 you need to fill out an interest form to get access. http://getinstantbuy.withgoogle.com/

Hope this helps.