Google Pay is upgrading the rewards programme for its Flex co-branded credit card ahead of the festive shopping season. The revised benefits, announced in partnership with Axis Bank and SBI Card, will take effect from October 16, 2026, giving Google One subscribers higher cashback on eligible spending.
The changes also introduce additional rewards for selected payments, referral bonuses and discounts on Google products and services.
Higher Cashback for Google One Members
Under the updated programme, eligible Google One members can receive up to 3.2% back on Flex card spending, depending on their total expenditure during a reward cycle. Members who spend less than ₹15,000 can receive 1.6% back, while those crossing the threshold can qualify for the higher rate.
For non-members, the corresponding cashback rates are 0.8% and 1.6%, depending on spending. Rewards are issued as Google Pay Stars, with each star worth ₹1 when redeemed through eligible options within Google Pay.
Extra Rewards on Bills and Groceries
Google One members can also earn additional rewards by meeting monthly spending milestones in selected categories.
Eligible utility bills, recharges and OTT subscriptions can qualify for 15% back, capped at ₹450 in stars after spending at least ₹3,000 during a reward cycle.
Eligible food and grocery transactions made through UPI can qualify for 5% back, capped at ₹250 in stars, after spending at least ₹5,000 with participating merchants.
These category rewards are subject to the programme’s terms and eligibility rules.
Discounts on Google AI Plans and Devices
The updated programme also expands benefits across Google’s ecosystem. Flex cardholders will be eligible for discounts on selected Google Pixel and Fitbit devices purchased from participating offline stores.
Google has also announced a 50% discount on eligible Google One AI Plus plans, offering savings of up to ₹3,960. This benefit is scheduled to launch on November 15, 2026.
The offers are subject to card eligibility, availability and the conditions specified by Google Pay and its banking partners.
Higher Welcome and Referral Rewards
Google Pay is also increasing welcome incentives for new Flex card applicants. Depending on the issuing bank and card network, eligible users can receive rewards worth up to ₹2,500 with SBI Card or ₹2,000 with Axis Bank.
Additional promotional rewards may be available for completing specified transactions during the first two months. Referral benefits have also been expanded under the updated programme.
How Flex Rewards Work
Flex is a co-branded credit card integrated with Google Pay and offered through banking partners. Cardholders earn stars on eligible transactions and can redeem them against qualifying Flex payments or use them towards selected vouchers within the app.
However, stars cannot be withdrawn as cash or redeemed outside Google Pay. Certain transactions, including some rent, insurance, government-service and EMI-converted payments, are excluded from earning rewards.
What Cardholders Should Check
Before relying on the revised benefits, users should review the terms applicable to their specific card, including spending thresholds, eligible merchants, reward caps and exclusions. Google One membership eligibility also has restrictions, and not every member of a shared family plan necessarily qualifies.
The upgrade expands the potential value of Flex for frequent Google Pay users, particularly those who regularly pay household bills and make eligible grocery purchases. The actual benefit will depend on spending habits and the programme’s conditions.