Google launches Checkout

Google today launched Google Checkout, designed as a fast, secure, and convenient checkout process for Google users. The service enables shoppers to purchase from participating stores with a single Google login, and works with the company's search advertising program, AdWords, to help merchants acquire new customers while processing all or a portion of their Checkout sales for free. Shoppers can find stores that accept Google Checkout by looking for the Google Checkout icon on AdWords advertisements, or whenever they come across the Google Checkout option on a merchant's site. Users can then create a Google Checkout login right from the merchant's site with a single username and password by entering basic information.

Checking out

Checking out at any store that offers Google Checkout entails selecting Google Checkout to quickly complete the transaction without having to fill out multiple forms. Shoppers can also keep track of their purchase history, including orders and shipping details.

Google Checkout enables purchases with existing payment methods such as Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover.

"By integrating the checkout process with search and advertising, we're helping our users complete the cycle of searching, finding and buying," said Salar Kamangar, Vice President of Product Management at Google. "In the offline world, shoppers don't tolerate long lines and tedious data entry just to buy something. They shouldn't have to in the online world either. Google Checkout simplifies and improves the online purchase experience for both consumers and merchants."

Security

Shoppers can also enhance their security when making purchases through Google Checkout, because the service conceals the buyer credit card number and provides reimbursement for unauthorized purchases. The service provides more control over email spam as well, allowing shoppers to choose whether or not to keep email addresses confidential or turn off unwanted email from the stores where they shop.

Lower costs for merchants

Google Checkout helps merchants streamline the checkout process and also works with Google's advertising program, AdWords, so merchants can attract more customers and increase sales. The Google Checkout icon on AdWords advertisements makes it easier for shoppers to find Google Checkout stores when they search. Once shoppers buy with Google Checkout, AdWords advertisers can also process all or a portion of their sales for free. For every $1 merchants spend on AdWords, they can process $10 in sales through Google Checkout at no charge.

Google Checkout offers a wide range of integration alternatives to make it easy for merchants to provide this new checkout option on their websites. Integration options include cut-and-paste buy buttons, as well as an advanced API that integrates with existing merchant shopping carts and order management systems. Many service providers have already integrated Google Checkout with their commerce platforms, including GSI Commerce, MonsterCommerce, and ChannelAdvisor, among others.

The service is currently open to all U.S. merchants, whether they advertise with Google or not, and Google is working to make the service available to merchants internationally.

by MacNN Staff