Google has announced updates to its Google Wallet and Google Photos apps. The update to Google Wallet ensures you do not have to be reliant on an email address to send someone money while collaboration between friends and family is improved with the update to Google Photos.

All you need is a telephone number to send money

Google is updating its Google Wallet app, instead of requiring an email address to send money all you need is the recipient’s contact number, which is much more convenient compared to searching for someone’s email address.

When you send money using a telephone number the recipient will receive a secure link via SMS. Once they click the link they will be able to enter their debit card details on the web page and claim the money that you sent. According to Google, once that is complete the money will be available in their bank account “within minutes.”

The new feature is currently only available in the U.S., as confirmed by Android Police and will be available for iOS and Android users within the next few days.

Multiple users can add photos and videos to a single event

Google is also announcing an update to Google Photos by introducing shared albums. The update allows everyone involved in your memory to add their own photos or videos easily so they are conveniently available in one place.

Once you share the link via SMS, email or messaging apps to friends and family everyone will have the opportunity to join and add their own memories to the shared album. Every time new photos and videos are added you will receive a notification. If you find some favorites among the photos and videos that other people upload, you can save them to your Google Photos library.

No set up is required, simply send the link through and your friends and family can start adding their shots regardless of whether they are using a laptop or tablet or whether they are on Android or iOS.

The shared album feature is rolling out today on Android, iOS and the web, so you can start collaborating with your friends and family and sharing those memories.

Check out the new shared albums feature in the video below:

Screenshot: SiliconANGLE via Google