Earlier this month, Google moved to breathe new life into its stuttering mobile wallet platform by launching a cloud-based version of the app that can be linked to Visa, American Express and Discover cards.

The update enables customers to link any card, storing details on Google's servers rather than on the handset, with a virtual MasterCard on the phone's secure storage area used to enable transactions at the point of sale.

At the time, the card outfits were not explicitly onboard, with American Express rushing to warn that it has not approved the Wallet and was evaluating its data transparency.

Nevertheless, Google claims it has seen a significant increase in signups and app usage and hopes that securing Discover's blessing will accelerate this.

The card firm has used Google's save-to-wallet API to make it easy for customers to load their credit card onto their phone from the Discover account centre and make it their primary one in the virtual wallet with a simple click. The card automatically syncs to the Google app for those that have a compatible NFC smartphone.

Discover customers can also add their credit card through the Google Wallet mobile app on their smartphone, or by adding their card through their Google account online.

Sanjay Gosalia, director, mobile, Discover, says: "By offering the ability to join Google Wallet through our Account Center, Discover is providing our cardmembers with even greater flexibility and convenience when it comes to paying for their purchases."