Axis Bank and Google Pay have jointly launched the Google Pay Flex Axis Bank Credit Card, marking India’s first fully digital, UPI powered co branded credit card. Introduced on December 17, the new offering runs on the RuPay network and represents Google Pay’s formal entry into the co branded credit card segment. The launch reflects the growing convergence of UPI based payments and traditional credit in India’s rapidly evolving digital payments ecosystem.
Designed for digital first users, the card is deeply integrated within the Google Pay app and allows customers to use credit in a familiar UPI style payment flow. The google pay flex axis bank credit card aims to simplify access to transactional credit while retaining the speed and convenience that UPI users expect.
Google Pay Flex Axis Bank Credit Card features and rollout
The google pay flex axis bank credit card is issued on the RuPay network, enabling acceptance across millions of offline merchants and online platforms that already support RuPay and UPI payments. Users can apply for the card digitally through the Google Pay app at zero cost, without physical paperwork. Once approved, the card is issued within minutes and can be used immediately for transactions.
A key feature of the card is its tight in app integration. Cardholders can track spending, pay outstanding bills in full, or convert balances into EMIs directly within Google Pay. Card controls such as blocking or unblocking the card and resetting the PIN are also available inside the app, removing the need for separate banking interfaces.
The rewards structure is built around a system called Stars. Users earn Stars on transactions, which can be redeemed instantly. One Star is equivalent to one rupee, making reward value transparent and easy to understand. This instant redemption model is intended to appeal to frequent UPI users who prefer simple and immediate benefits rather than complex reward catalogues.
Axis Bank said the product was developed in response to the rapid rise of UPI as India’s preferred payment method. Arnika Dixit, president and head of cards, payments and wealth management at Axis Bank, stated that the bank saw a clear opportunity to create a credit product aligned with the habits of digital first consumers. According to her, seamless integration within the Google Pay app allows the card to deliver a secure and convenient experience suited to modern spending patterns.
From Google Pay’s perspective, the product addresses a gap in India’s digital payments landscape. Sharath Bulusu, senior director of product management at Google Pay, noted that while digital payments are widespread, access to transactional credit remains relatively limited. He said Flex was built to bridge this gap by reimagining how users interact with credit on a daily basis, combining RuPay’s acceptance network, Axis Bank’s financial infrastructure and Google Pay’s platform.
NPCI has also highlighted the role of RuPay and UPI in enabling this model. Sohini Rajola, executive director growth at NPCI, reiterated the organisation’s focus on delivering trusted and seamless digital payment experiences, with the new card reflecting that broader goal.
The rollout of the google pay flex axis bank credit card has already begun, with Axis Bank and Google Pay planning wider availability over the coming months. Interested users can currently join a waitlist through the Google Pay app as the partners gradually expand access.
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