Google Pay Debuts UPI-Linked Digital Credit Card in Exclusive Tie-Up With Axis Bank

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Google has launched its first-ever co-branded credit card in India in partnership with Axis Bank on the RuPay network, which is one of the biggest domestic card payment networks. The Google Pay app users can now link this credit card to their UPI account to make payments.

Reportedly, this credit card is set to offer instant cashback and benefits, unlike traditional credit cards, where the user has to wait for at least 1 month to redeem the benefits. Explore the key features of this new Google credit card in detail.

Key Features of the UPI-Integrated Card

The Google Pay Flex Axis Bank Credit Card functions as a fully digital financial tool that resides within the Google Pay app. Users can apply for this card at zero cost without any physical paperwork and receive a virtual version in minutes. This credit card operates on the RuPay network to offer "Scan and Pay" transactions at millions of merchants.

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The most exciting feature of this credit card is its instant rewards system which allows users to earn "Stars" immediately as they are credited after a transaction. "Where we have innovated is the way you can use your rewards. You earn rewards instantly on every transaction, and you can immediately use them on the very next transaction," noted Sharath Bulusu, Google’s senior director. This eliminates the wait for monthly billing cycles to redeem benefits.

Transforming the Digital Credit Landscape in India

This partnership significantly alters the Indian digital credit scene by merging traditional credit with the daily habit of UPI usage. While credit cards currently have low penetration in India, this integration makes formal credit as intuitive as a standard bank transfer. The platform offers great repayment flexibility by allowing users to convert monthly bills into EMIs directly through the app dashboard.

"With UPI emerging as the preferred mode of payment, we identified a clear opportunity to co-create a credit offering tailored for the digital-first consumer," stated Arnika Dixit from Axis Bank. By leveraging the National Payments Corporation of India’s infrastructure, Google is effectively bridging the gap between high-frequency digital payments and the structured benefits of a formal credit line for millions of users.

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