A new leak suggests Google's version of the Apple Card is on the way

Apple has already released its own credit card, which has apparently prompted Google to look into the possibility of issuing a similar product. TechCrunch has published the latest leak to this effect, which it claims to have acquired from a source who in turn asserts it comes directly from the Mountain View giant.

It mainly consists of screenshots that does admittedly contain the hallmarks of this company's Pay app, albeit a version that appears to function in order to manage a payment card.

Admittedly, the same app does allow the user to add existing cards that can then be used in a digital wallet for transactions. However, TechCrunch's new screenshots also contain images of a wholly new card: the Google Card, according to its source. However, unlike its possible Apple counterpart, it is to be a Visa debit card rather than a Mastercard. 

As such, it would be linked to a checking or current account, which is reportedly to be opened with Google's new financial-services partners. To date, they are said to include Citigroup and Stanford Federal Credit Union. Going by the leaked app images, this card will also be controlled using an app interface (which may or may turn out to be new aspects of Google Pay).

This UI seems to mimic Apple Pay for a Card user in some important ways, including balance tracking and a transaction history. The latter also allows for individual purchases to be expanded so as to show vendor information, Google Maps-generated location included. The user may also be able to lock their card or account with one touch in case of theft or fraud.

Furthermore, TechCrunch envisages that Google will also be able to at least equal its Cupertino rival in terms of in-app budgeting advice, cashback offers and even lending at interest. In addition, given this company's profound ability to collect and process data, it could also leverage its rumored foray into financial services to create ever-more targeted ads so as to influence its Card-holders' purchases. However, the leaks pointing to these possibilities need to be verified beforehand.