What you need to know

• Google Wallet's Digital ID support is expanding to select EU countries this summer.
• New privacy-focused age checks let users prove eligibility without sharing unnecessary personal details like their full name, address, or date of birth.
• Google Pay Direct Checkout streamlines online purchases by letting shoppers use payment methods saved in Google Wallet directly on merchant websites.
• Google says checkout security is getting an upgrade too, with improved authentication systems designed to boost speed without weakening protection.

Google is doubling down on its foray into digital identity, betting that the future of online transactions depends as much on trust as it does on speed.

At Money20/20 Europe, the company announced a series of updates to Google Wallet and Google Pay that aim to make proving who you are online as easy as making a purchase. One of the biggest announcements is the expansion of digital IDs. Google says it will bring ID passes to select European Union member states this summer after rolling the support out in countries including Brazil, India, Singapore, and Taiwan.

The change will give more users a way to store and present digital identity credentials directly from Google Wallet.

Age checks without oversharing

Google is also introducing new age verification features designed to display only the necessary information. Instead of sharing personal details like your full name, address, or date of birth, users can simply confirm that they meet an age requirement. The company is launching the feature in partnership with European banking partner Sparkasse and is looking to limit the amount of personal information shared during verification.

Shopping is getting attention too. Google announced a new feature called Google Pay Direct Checkout, which integrates payment methods saved in Google Wallet directly into the online checkout pages of participating merchants.

Consumers can avoid the pain of bouncing between payment screens or manually inputting card details by using credentials already stored in their Google accounts to buy. The feature is being rolled out through Airwallex and will also be extended to merchants using Adyen’s payment platform.

In the background, security continues to be a big concern. Google has improved authentication systems to speed up online checkouts without sacrificing security. The company stated that the improvements aim to simplify the purchasing process while ensuring robust safeguards for payment credentials and personal data.

Android Central's Take

Google’s latest Wallet upgrades make a lot of sense. Anything that reduces the number of times I have to enter card details, upload an ID, or give away personal information just to prove I’m old enough to buy something online is a win. But the success of all these changes depends on whether retailers, banks, and government agencies are actually on board. Google can build the tools, but a digital ID isn’t very useful if half the internet is still asking me to scan a driver’s license or fill out the same forms manually.

What you need to know

• Google Wallet now shows live flight status updates directly on the lock screen.
• Users can track departure time, arrival time, and real-time flight progress via a dynamic notification with a progress bar.
• The feature works when you add your boarding pass via Gmail and is rolling out on Android 16 and newer devices.

Google Wallet is gaining a new feature that will allow Android users to keep track of the live status of their flights in real time directly from the lock screen and notification shade.

Google already offers some useful features in the Wallet app, including the ability to add your passport and create digital passes for services that don't natively support the feature. However, with a new update, Google Wallet is getting a feature that could actually reduce some of the stress around catching a flight.

As spotted by 9to5Google, you will now be able to track live progress for your current flight through a new Google Wallet notification. If you add your boarding pass via Gmail, the app already sends alerts for things like boarding time and gate changes, but now it will also show a live status of your flight directly on your Android phone.

According to the report, Google Wallet will show a live update notification on Android 16 and above. The notification will appear shortly before your departure time and include estimated takeoff and arrival times, along with real-time updates. There's also a progress bar with a plane icon that visually shows the flight's progress.

Tapping on the notification takes you to the boarding pass page, where you can see more details about your flight. Google first announced this feature back in October, but it now seems to be rolling out more widely. We haven't tested it yet, but you will likely need the latest version of the app from the Play Store to use it.

Overall, this feels like a genuinely useful addition to Google Wallet. It makes it easier to check for delays or changes right from your lock screen, and if you use an always-on display, you can see updates without even unlocking your phone.

Android Central's Take

Honestly, this just makes sense. Flight tracking is something most people check multiple times anyway, so putting it on the lock screen feels like a natural upgrade. Good move from Google, in my opinion.

What you need to know

• Google Wallet is reportedly working on an update that reworks its home screen to show a user's four "favorite" passes or cards.
• The update would also add a "view more" button on the home screen, which would expand and show additional items in a grid-style.
• Previous Wallet updates have honed in on functionality and ease of use, as Google recently rolled out its "context-aware" patch for the app.

Google is reportedly working on an update for its Wallet app that could provide a more colorful and helpful experience for users.

AssembleDebug claims a hidden feature is in the works within Google Wallet's latest version that supposedly shows a rework for its card/pass display (via Android Authority). What the tipster suggests is that Google Wallet will bring an update to change its home screen from the otherwise outdated design we have currently. A "grid-style" UI is reportedly on the way, which will show four of a user's "favorite" cards or passes.

This term "favorites" is what's important here. AssembleDebug says that users will have a chance to "favorite" or "star" passes/cards they'd like to remain on their home screen. It should give users ease of use in the long run. However, the post adds that Google Wallet will supposedly choose your four favorites right off the bat.

Users can, of course, go through and decide for themselves which are their true favorites. The passes and cards are quite colorful, taking on whatever the primary hue is for the digital item, as well as rounded corners, which has become common across Android's aesthetic.

On the other side, the tipster spotted a "View More" button. Google's early code reads, "Tap View more to manage what's on home, search your wallet, and see all your payment methods, passes, and activity." There's no clear indication as to when this Wallet rework could arrive for users.

Making it easy

Google Wallet's been trying to refine its experience, as, since it's digital, users don't want to fumble around with it. An update around the holidays brought a feature that pushes Wallet to produce the appropriate pass or card based on your location. If you've got a train pass and you've arrived at the station, Wallet would bring it up for you. If you're at a grocery store, you can expect to see your debit or credit card. This "context-aware" feature was something Google teased during I/O last year.

On a related note, Google's also working on providing mobile users with their entire purchase history in Wallet. This isn't entirely new, as Wallet's web version does this. It's just Android that's feeling left out. This purchase history would display your card's activity across every device that has access to it.

Android Central's Take

I'm glad to see Google move in this direction for Wallet. Not only is it colorful, which is a plus on its own, but it's functional. Right now, Google Wallet feels a little stale and barebones. Sure, there's card present at the top, but I hardly ever look at anything beneath it. I can get my coupon information in other ways. This feature, should it roll out as rumors say it may, might make Wallet feel a little more appealing to use. Plus, it'll be fast to open it, tap a card or pass, and get moving.

What you need to know

• A recent Google Play Services update reportedly teased an update for Google Wallet on Android, which aims to bring a full view into your digital payments.
• Its expected that the update will mirror its website, where users can find transactions made using their digital card across all devices.
• Previous Wallet for Android updates include Live Updates for planes and trains and an update that makes using passes much easier.

Digital payments are as common as anything else on Android, and a recent discovery suggests Google's looking to make that easier to manage.

Having a total bird's-eye view into your digital card payments on Google Wallet for Android isn't a thing right now, but 9to5Google says that might change. Your transaction history page in Wallet for mobile devices is tipped to receive an upgrade. The publication spotted the company referencing the change, which says users will find transactions from "other devices and online purchases that use virtual card numbers."

With how this is described, there are expectations that Google Wallet on Android will bring total transaction tracking, similar to its web view. If the update arrives as speculation says, then users wouldn't need to open Chrome or hop into their bank account to see the full scope of their past purchases.

The post also notes that the inclusion of "other devices" in this updated transactions page should bring items purchased using your Wear OS device, too. On the other hand, the dive into a recent Play Services update surfaced a "search" function for transactions.

This is another feature that Google Wallet on the web offers. Its uses extend to searching your transactions by amount, merchant, or date.

While these changes were spotted in a recent Play Services update version, nothing has rolled out yet, and there's no clear indication as to when it will.

Digital payments shouldn't be hard

While we await this transactions page update, Google Wallet gifted users an update in mid-December for passes. The app uses some location-based magic, surfacing any stored digital passes on your lock screen as you approach certain places. Classified as a "context-aware" feature, Google Wallet's update finally brings this function to users after teasing it during its I/O conference.

Think of it this way: if you're rolling up to an airport gate or hopping into your favorite store, Google Wallet will recognize this and have your pass ready to go. Essentially, you won't have to go through the typical runaround.

Another update arrived late last year, which made it easier to catch your plane or train. The app now utilizes Android 16's Live Updates to find important details regarding when their transport will be arriving on their lock and home screens. The OS' Live Updates were previously introduced for ride-shares and food deliveries, but have since started to expand to more crucial aspects.

What you need to know

• Google Wallet now automatically surfaces the exact pass you need the moment you approach the right location.
• The new feature finally delivers the context-aware Wallet teased at Google I/O, removing the need to dig through a messy pass list.
• When you get close to an airport gate, concert venue, transit terminal, or store, Wallet pushes a one-tap notification that opens the correct pass instantly.

Weariness at the boarding gate, fumbling for a concert ticket, or digging through loyalty cards — those days will soon be over if you use Google Wallet. Google is rolling out a new feature that surfaces the right pass at the right time, based on where you are.

Instead of digging through a cluttered list of passes at the worst possible time (think boarding gate, train turnstile, or concert security line), Google Wallet can now automatically surface the exact pass you need, 9to5Google reports. After teasing it at Google I/O in May, the tech giant is rolling out its “Set up nearby notifications” alerts, a new feature that pops up the right ticket, card, or boarding pass the moment you get close to where you’ll need it.

So, instead of acting like a digital filing cabinet, Wallet is now becoming context-aware. As you approach a relevant location — an airport terminal, a venue entrance, a transit gate, or even a store where you use a loyalty card — the app sends a push notification that opens the matching pass instantly. You get it with one tap, without scrolling through stacks of passes or guessing which one is correct.

Privacy trade-off

Setting up nearby notifications is straightforward. When you open a pass that supports the feature, Wallet prompts you to enable it, which requires granting location access “all the time.”

This means Google Wallet can continuously track your device's location, even when you are not using the app. It’s a privacy trade-off, but in return, you get a hands-free experience that feels genuinely helpful.

This rollout blends in another handy travel feature: automated flight check-in alerts. Users are seeing notifications urging them to "Check in to your flight" well before they head to the airport. It appears Wallet is pulling this data directly from confirmation emails in Gmail.

This rollout is hitting devices right now, just in time for the holiday travel rush.

What you need to know

• Google's late October Play Services update detailed new support for the Wallet app and Android 16's Live Updates.
• Soon, Android users will find their trains, flights, and events detailed in real-time in Android 16's Live Update notification on their lock screen and home screens.
• Originally, when Android 16 launched, Live Updates concerned food deliveries and ride-shares; however, users can soon make sure they reach the station and gate on time.

There's a Play Services update that Google's preparing on its servers, and it seems it's finally looking to make good on a promised update.

An update to Google's Play Services changelog was spotted by 9to5Google, which highlights its v25.41 patch, but with a focus on Google Wallet. According to the company, the updates rolling out in the newest version for the Wallet app concern Android phone users and traveling. The main highlight states users can soon expect Live Updates to bring "key travel journeys that include flights, train trips, and events."

Google also details that it's bringing an update that moves Gmail closer to Wallet for passes. The changelog states users with Android 12 or newer will soon "receive notifications" if a loyalty pass from Gmail has been imported into Wallet.

The final Wallet update regards a little ease in adding new cards. Google states, "With this update, you can add cards through supported issuer apps without entering details."

While Google Wallet is finally rolling out its updates for traveling Android users, v25.41 of Play Services isn't done, as security and developers made the cut, too.

• With this update, you can use your mobile to complete reCAPTCHA web verification
• With this update, you can now find hidden passkeys in Google Password Manager and delete them
• (Developer) New developer features for Google and third party app developers to support Ads related processes in their apps.

Making it a breeze to travel efficiently

Google first detailed its real-time alerts for trains in the Wallet app back during its I/O event in May. These alerts were constant updates that users could lean on about their train rides, knowing whether or not it's delayed, on time, or otherwise. Users who've added their tickets in the Wallet app would receive such notifications. However, Google only announced the feature for users in Canada and India first.

When it comes to Live Updates, Google detailed those alerts as a whole feature for Android 16 when it launched. A Live Update notification can be viewed on your lock screen or by tapping its chip on your home screen (top left). The alert itself originally arrived with food delivery and ride-sharing information, equipped with a progress bar, too.

Now, with the latest Play Services update looping in trains, planes (and automobiles—kidding), and events, users should see similar behavior with Android 16 and Live Updates.

What you need to know

• Google Wallet is reportedly rolling out support for Android users for digital State IDs from Arkansas.
• The process remains the same, meaning users will need to photograph the front and back of their ID, as well as a quick video selfie of their face for verification.
• Google promised Arkansas would join Wallet back in April, but it's only rolling out now.

Digital State IDs in Google Wallet continue to be updated for users across the country, and a new report states another state, the 10th, was just spotted.

A 9to5Google post reported the sudden appearance of the 10th state to have its ID support in Google Wallet today (Oct 6). It seems the company is rolling out support for users in Arkansas. The publication states users can check to see if they have it by heading into Wallet > Add to Wallet > Driver's License/State ID.

For users in Arkansas, the process of adding your State ID to Google Wallet is just like all the others.

After selecting which state you're in, you'll be prompted to first snap a photo of the front and back of your ID. Then, you will have to record a quick selfie video of your face for verification purposes. You can send off everything required via the app, and you should soon receive confirmation that everything checks out, so long as all the steps were completed appropriately. This verification process shouldn't take more than a few minutes, and the alert will appear as any other on your device.

Accessing your digital State ID is a process similar to accessing your saved cards in Wallet.

Something that Google has warned in the past, same as the publication reiterates today, having your ID digital does not replace your physical version. This regards TSA and law enforcement more strictly, as they may still want to see your actual ID. Users should begin noticing Arkansas appear as an option in the Wallet app on their Android phones today.

Digitizing cards for seamless days

Google's been working with U.S. States to incorporate digital IDs into the lives of its users, and this work continued even through the end of 2024. Late last year, New Mexico joined an ever-growing list of states that support digital IDs in Google Wallet. It joined the likes of California, Arizona, Georgia, Colorado, Iowa, Maryland, Montana, and North Dakota.

The interesting thing about Google Wallet's current list of supported State IDs is that we were told about Montana back in April, the same as Arkansas. Those two states were listed alongside Puerto Rico and West Virginia; however, we're only seeing Arkansas today (Oct 6). Montana has since joined. So, it looks like Google is still working through any issues that may have arisen before users can see those promised states and territories in the app.

That announcement in April also highlighted digital ID support in the U.K., too. It's a more secure/safe way for residents there to confirm their identity. While passports were a part of this expansion for U.K. residents, Google said it's partnering with Rail Delivery Group to bring digital ID support to "select" Railcards in the U.K.

This is Android Central's News Weekly, your go-to source for a concise roundup of the week's most significant tech stories. This is where we delve into the top headlines that provide the latest developments and innovations contributing to the digital landscape.

Made by Google is just around the corner, and like every year, Android Central has curated an exclusive guide. Think of it as a destination for everything we expect to see on August 20. We'll keep updating this Ultimate Guide with all the latest info, so you won't miss a thing.

This week, Google officially teases its upcoming Pixel 10 Pro Fold, Perplexity wants to buy Chrome, Samsung's XR Glasses could be coming next year, Amazon is shutting down its Android app store, and Google Wallet wants more permissions from you.

Google officially teases the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, twice

Read more here and here

What's in a name? You may ask.

Google dropped two videos teasing its upcoming foldable within the same week. On Aug. 12, Google posted the first YouTube video, teasing its Pixel 10 Pro Fold. The teaser, about 30 seconds long, takes viewers over the phone's design, which is pretty similar to what we got in 2024 with the 9 Pro Fold. The narrator talks about the joy of opening a new phone and then "opening your new phone" because it's a foldable... get it?

But what we didn't expect to see was Google opening up the Pixel 10 Pro Fold in the first tease itself, basically revealing both panels of the device. The teaser shows off the device's hinge and a clear glimpse of its camera housing on its rear panel. The final glimpse involves the 10 Pro Fold's inner display, which the teaser gives a complete look at.

And just in two days, Google drops another video, showcasing the Fold again, but this time, hinting at a possible change in branding. As the video ends with the title "Google Pixel Fold," which is the name of the very first model. Now we don't know for certain if this was a slip-up by the company that wasn't spotted during final reviews, or if Google seems to be working on a much easier title for its device. Only time will tell.

For more news and information on Google's upcoming phones, check out our Ultimate Guide.

Perplexity and others eye Google Chrome

Read more here and here

Google's parent company, Alphabet, could be forced to sell Chrome as a remedy to a recent antitrust ruling. And many buyers are already in line to outbid one another. This week, Perplexity, an AI-powered search engine startup founded just a couple of years ago, wants to acquire the Chrome web browser and has supposedly made a massive, "all-cash" offer of $34.5 billion to purchase Chrome.

This isn't the first time Perplexity has shown interest in buying Chrome. The company has previously stated it believes it could operate Chrome at the same scale as Google without charging users.

Pexplexity isn't the only company that has its eyes on Chrome. Search.com, one of the new AI-based search engines gaining attention, has announced it topped Perplexity's offer with a $35 billion bid for Google Chrome.

Unlike Perplexity, despite being valued at less than half its bid, Search.com confirmed its bid is "backed by JP Morgan." If the company acquires Chrome, it promises to offer perks to users and publishers

Samsung's XR glasses could show up in 2026

Read more here

We know that Samsung is reportedly developing glasses under Project HAEAN with Google, a pair that was on stage during Google's TED demo this year.

A rumor seems to have cropped up this week from SEDaily, alleging Samsung is in the process of establishing its own smart glasses brand. An "industry insider" stated, "While Samsung is responsible for the hardware portion of its partnership with Google, Google also conducts internal hardware research and prepares for the future, so Samsung must also develop its own brand."

This means that Samsung could be pursuing its own smartglasses away from the Google umbrella. Moreover, these smart glasses could be "display-less," much like the Ray Ban Meta smart glasses, which only provide a camera, speaker, and microphone for users.

Early rumors claim these smart glasses could debut sometime during the "end of 2026."

Amazon to shut down its Android app store

Read more here

Amazon started informing developers and consumers alike that it was going to shut down its store for Android on August 20 earlier this year, and the day seems to be fast approaching.

While Amazon's app store was viewed as a decent alternative for users looking for apps that the Google Play Store didn't carry, we'll still have to bid farewell to it next week. The catch, however, is that Amazon's devices will keep the store available, but it won't show up on all Android devices.

Once support is over for the Amazon App Store on Android, there's "no guarantee" that apps will continue to work on those devices. So, it's likely Android users will need to either drop or let go of those apps or look for alternatives on Google's Play Store.

It is important to note that Amazon Coins will also be discontinued, and will be refunded to users if they have unused coins on the app store.

Google Wallet to ask for more personal info

Read more here

Google Wallet could now ask for location permission to display maps and addresses on receipts. This is only applicable if you want receipts that include store addresses and maps.

Until late July, Google Wallet receipts showed store details and a map without any extra steps. Now, that’s turned off by default, and you have to switch on “Precise location” in the app to see them again. If a transaction is missing the map card, you’ll see a message saying: "Get detailed receipts, like merchant name and address, for future tap to pay transactions."

It's important to note that switching to this option won’t update past transactions with maps or addresses since it only applies to new payments.

More stories this week

Those are some of the biggest stories from this week. Meanwhile, here are some other stories that are worth catching up on:

• Google's AI Flight Deals tool promises affordable travel options for flexible travelers
• HTC leaps into AI smart glasses with the VIVE Eagle's voice-activated eyewear
• Google Wallet rolls out quick access feature with new 'double-tap' shortcut on Pixel
• Whoop stands firm against FDA pressure over Blood Pressure insights tool
• Samsung launches refurbished Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Flip 5 at reduced prices
• Google Translate app tipped to add 'Practice' for learning new languages
• Official Pixel 10 cases have leaked, and they've got a magnetic surprise
• Discover how Google's new feature lets you cartoonize your photos effortlessly
• Samsung's One UI 8 Beta Program appears for the Galaxy S24, older foldables overseas
• Google's canceled Pixel Tablet Pen shows up on Amazon listings

What you need to know

• A user on Reddit states their Pixel 9 Pro Fold running Android 16 has received Google Wallet's new shortcut overlay.
• This overlay is produced by double-tapping the power button if Wallet is selected as the gesture's app of choice.
• Users can open the full app from this overlay and swipe through cards before using their NFC scanner to make a payment.

Google Wallet is reportedly starting to roll out its new overlay to coincide with Android 16's new double-tap gesture customization.

A post on the Google Wallet subreddit highlights the appearance of a brand new app overlay when double-tapping the power button (via 9to5Google). The original poster (OP) states this new "Shortcut Wallet UI" now appears when pressing their Pixel 9 Pro Fold's power button, which is running Android 16. Of course, users would need to have Google Wallet set as the app action for this gesture.

The user adds that this overlay showcases your cards at the forefront with a blurred background, instead of launching the entire Wallet app. Users can quickly scroll through their cards by swiping right, or they can open the full app at the bottom. Another user chimed in, reporting that the payment animation when using your phone for an NFC scan at a register has changed, too.

For those interested, the OP states they've spotted the new Google Wallet overlay on their Pixel 9 Pro Fold running v25.31.791869140 of the app and beta version 25.31.31 of Play Services.

However, another user with a Pixel 9 Pro XL running similar versions hasn't yet observed this double-tap gesture. It might take some time, but it seems Google is in the early stages of this feature's rollout.

A little more for Wallet

New Shortcut Wallet UI now rolling out from r/GoogleWallet

Google Wallet's been on a spree throughout 2024, introducing additional bank support for users looking to make payments with their phones. The move was during the time the company was preparing to sunset its Google Pay app, which was bringing users into Wallet more prominently.

The app's updates remained quite calm until Google Wallet picked up some more exciting additions before I/O this year. The app received support for real-time train status alerts for users with their train passes added. Now, users are able to see statuses such as "On Time," "Delayed," and more. During the feature's arrival, Google said these statuses would remain restricted to India and Canada for the time being before hitting other regions.

That update also brought the ability to add Loyalty and Gift card passes via its homepage on computers.

What you need to know

• Google Wallet now requires location permission on Android to show maps and addresses on your payment receipts.
• Before late July, store details and maps appeared automatically on receipts.
• Now, that’s off by default, and you have to enable “Precise location” in the app to bring them back.
• If a receipt doesn’t show the map, you’ll see a prompt encouraging you to set up location access for future transactions.

Location permission is now required for Google Wallet to display maps and addresses on receipts.

9to5Google reports that Google Wallet on Android now asks for location access if you want receipts that include store addresses and maps.

Until late July, Google Wallet receipts showed store details and a map without any extra steps. Now, that’s turned off by default, and you have to switch on “Precise location” in the app to see them again, as per the outlet.

If a transaction is missing the map card, you’ll see a message saying: "Get detailed receipts, like merchant name and address, for future tap to pay transactions."

No retroactive updates

Switching this option on won’t update past transactions with maps or addresses since it only kicks in for new payments going forward.

To get started, open a recent receipt in Google Wallet. You’ll be prompted to "Set up location settings," which will guide you through enabling "Precise location" for the app.

9to5 notes that no new features have been added to Google Wallet receipts; the change simply requires location permission for the existing map and address details to be displayed.

It’s helpful that Google prompts for location permission rather than enabling it behind the scenes. Without that, many users could be confused about missing maps without any explanation.

What you need to know

• With new personalizations on RCS Group chats, users can customize group icons and names, check friend RCS availability, and manage notifications.
• Google Photos to incorporate a redesigned editor with AI suggestions, a Reimagine feature, and an Auto frame for easier photo enhancement.
• Google Home app gains access to device-specific shortcuts and the ability to manage favorites across various Google devices.

Android 16 is finally here, and the search giant has announced six new prominent features that should make the experience even better.

RCS Group Enhancements

RCS is one of the greatest ways to connect with your favorite ones, and through group chats, it appears even better. To take things forward, the company will soon be adding some personalization to group chats in Google Messages.

Users will be able to add a custom icon for their RCS group chats and also give unique or personalized names to make them stand out. And, they can check which friends from their contact lists have RCS enabled. Notifications can also be muted on specific group chats for a duration per their preference.

New Google Photos Editor

Google Photos is also gaining a new redesigned image editor, which promises easier editing than ever. It will include new AI-powered suggestions that evidently help users elevate their photos with a single tap. Plus, there will be a new Reimagine feature that lets users describe what they want to see, further making their ideas come to life. Then there is Auto frame to help users expand the scene or crop the image per their preference.

Smarter Home Management

Google Home users will also be able to find and manage smart home products faster with new device-specific shortcuts. These are applicable for their Favorites — like the ability to pin their security cameras on their Google TV, or kitchen speaker to their Android phone, or even pinning the thermostat to their WearOS smartwatch. All such combinations can be set via the Google Home app.

Safety Check is also gaining notable improvements, like adding extra time through the Personal Safety app on your Android phone. For the unaware, Safety Check allows users to schedule a specific check-in time to ensure a user has reached home safely.

In some scenarios where users aren’t able to respond within the check-in time, their locations will be shared with emergency contacts right away. However, sometimes a user may not be able to arrive on time, and in such cases, users will be able to extend or add extra time, instead of creating a new Safety Check.

Emojis and Swift Payments

Emoji Kitchen stickers will now be even more expressive with the inclusion of new sticker combinations as part of the new update. Users will be able to remix their favorite emojis and share them with their favorite ones as stickers through Gboard.

To ensure people have smoother public transit rides, Google will be allowing payments directly from their WearOS smartwatches. They will be able to tap city transit cards even when their Google Wallet app is closed. Users, however, have to ensure that the feature is turned on if they are used to using a credit or debit card to tap.

• Phone deals: Best Buy | Walmart | Samsung | Amazon | Verizon | AT&T

What you need to know

• Samsung's new "Tap to Transfer" feature facilitates direct P2P payments from Samsung Wallet debit cards to recipients' bank accounts.
• It uses NFC, and the feature is compatible with multiple digital wallets (Samsung, Google, Apple) next to physical tap-to-pay debit cards.
• While initially fee-free, a 1.75% transaction fee (minimum $0.25) is expected to apply to the sender in the future.

Having Samsung Wallet is one of the best perks of owning a Galaxy phone. And in the U.S., it's getting even better as the company is finally rolling out the new Tap to Transfer feature.

The new feature's aim is to make peer-to-peer (P2P) payments “quick and convenient” in the U.S. While the company announced the feature early this month, the feature is now broadly rolling out this week.

Samsung has collaborated with Visa and Mastercard, with which users will be able to use a debit card that is already stored in Samsung Wallet to send money to friends and family — straight into their bank accounts. It works by the NFC tech utilized by Samsung Wallet that swiftly connects to the recipient’s debit card stored in their respective digital wallets — be it Samsung Wallet, Google Wallet, and even Apple Wallet for that matter.

Additionally, the new Tap to Transfer feature also works with recipients who have their physical debit card, which supports tap-to-pay capabilities — as it will have a connecting chip, which can be used by Samsung Wallet similar to what users pay at a retail store.

Another important thing to remember is that Samsung Wallet wouldn’t charge any fees for the Tap to Transfer feature. The FAQ page on the website, however, mentions that “a 1.75% fee (minimum of $0.25) is applied to each transaction. The fee only applies to the sender.”

Other than the new Tap to Transfer, Samsung Wallet is the go-to application for Galaxy phone users as they can store essential things like driver’s license, credit cards, passes, gym membership cards, loyalty and boarding passes, and gift cards, and more. Some college students can even store their student ID cards as well.

It is encouraging to see Samsung bringing interesting features to its Wallet app as users won’t have to rely on third-party apps for money transfer at least in the U.S. for now, and we hope the feature expands to even more countries soon.

• Phone deals: Best Buy | Walmart | Samsung | Amazon | Verizon | AT&T

What you need to know

• A bug affecting Google Wallet caused repeated authentication prompts for Wear OS users.
• More than a week after first acknowledging the problem, Google confirmed it has patched the bug.
• Wear OS users can now continue making Wallet payments without authenticating their purchase if it is unlocked and on their wrist.

A tweak to how Google Wallet handles contactless payments on Android phones may have resulted in a frustrating bug for Wear OS users, but it has since been resolved. In a community post Thursday, May 29, a Google employee confirmed the bug causing Wear OS devices to repeatedly ask for PIN/pattern authentication is fixed (via 9to5Google).

Now, users can continue to make Wallet transactions without needing to authenticate their purchase every single time. After unlocking the smartwatch and keeping it strapped to your wrist, you can make Google Wallet contactless payments quickly and easily without entering your PIN or pattern.

The updated community post explains that some Wear OS users were "being asked to re-enter their PIN/password on their smartwatch during in-store payments." The company acknowledged the issue on May 20, and more than a week later, the patch is available.

Initially, it was unclear whether this bug was a behavior change coinciding with an adjustment made to the way Google Wallet works on Android. For smartphones, Google Wallet now needs to be unlocked with a passcode or biometrics for the app to be opened. While the emergence of the Wear OS bug seemed to line up with this tweak, it turned out to be a mistake after all.

Not all Wear OS users were affected by the problem, so if you haven't been dealing with repeated authentication prompts, you can continue using Google Wallet as normal. However, the issue seemed fairly widespread, as over 360 users reported having the same problem on the community post — and those are just the ones we know about.

To get the fix, make sure your Google Wallet app is updated to version 25.17 on your Wear OS smartwatch. It's unclear if the patch is a server-side adjustment or if it requires an app update.

Welcome to Tech Talk, a weekly column about the things we use and how they work. We try to keep it simple here so everyone can understand how and why the gadget in your hand does what it does.

Things may become a little technical at times, as that's the nature of technology — it can be complex and intricate. Together we can break it all down and make it accessible, though!

You might not care how any of this stuff happens, and that's OK, too. Your tech gadgets are personal and should be fun. You never know though, you might just learn something ...

You need a good ID vault more than ever

A new feature for Android was announced, and it's likely that most people didn't notice or care about it: on-device support for OpenID standards.

It makes sense; this sounds like a really nerdy thing that nobody asked for and you have no intentions of using, but it's not. Well, OK, not very many people asked for it, but only because they had no idea it existed or that it was needed. We do need it, and you will end up using it.

How this all works is a rabbit hole of tech that is really difficult to understand completely, but easy to see the high-level picture.

You'll enter a form of verified digital ID, like a driver's license or a passport, into a wallet app. This app uses OpenID open-source standards to ensure it's secure — plenty of eyes are on its code and actively trying to break it. It will never be 100% foolproof because nothing ever is, but it's pretty secure.

That app doesn't need to do anything other than be a place to store these credentials. In fact, I'd say that's all it should ever do because that's a really important thing. Think of it as a big, heavy-duty bank vault to hold your ID.

When another app needs to verify who you are, examples given include Amazon, CVS, or Uber. You pick your ID from the list, and that ID vault app sends the relevant details securely between them. You don't have to take a photo of anything or send a copy of your driver's license to Amazon, or anything else. The app knows who to ask (the Digital Wallet, or ID vault) and knows what to do with the information it is given.

All this is done on your phone, it's all encrypted, and it's surely going to be easy to wipe all details if you need to do it.

All you have to do is enter your ID into the right app, and the rest is done for you. Normally, I don't like it when things happen automatically, but this is not one of those times. I know if done properly, this system will do a much better job of keeping my identity secure than I ever could. My only problem is making the right choice.

The problem isn't really a problem: regular users (that'd be you and me) don't need to know about any of this for it to be effective. We can just use it and benefit without knowing any better. But that means we either need Google to act in a very walled-garden way and act as a gatekeeper for which developers can use it and how, or we have to make the right choice.

The first isn't likely to happen and probably shouldn't happen. Companies like Google and Apple control the mobile phone market, and giving them even more power is a bad idea. In Google's case, with an enormous amount of leverage worldwide through Android, it's a very bad idea.

That means you have to be able to trust someone. So, who to trust?

That's tricky. The only thing I trust a tech company to do is things that benefit it. Having said that, I know that you can trust a company like Google (or Apple, if you use an iPhone) or Samsung because they have too much to lose if they screw it up. Google says 1Password is also going to incorporate this more secure "ID vault" feature as well, and we can probably trust them, too.

Who you can't trust is the better way to think about it. There could be a development team out there that can do this so much better than Google or Samsung ever will. There could also be people who just want to make a quick buck, do the very basics, then stop caring. Until you can determine which is which, you can't trust either.

I know that's awfully cynical and a little unfair. I don't care, and neither should you.

When that amazing app that does a great job hits the scene, a lot of eyes will be on it. The right people will look at it, and they'll tell you if it's as great as claimed or if it's just a dud. You need to let those right people have a long, hard look and trust them, knowing they know a lot more about this than we do. Unless, of course, you are one of those right people; if so, make sure to tell the rest of us what you think, OK?

When everything is finally squared away and this is how we handle identity verification in the future (I think it will happen and know it needs to happen), do the smart thing. Install Google Wallet or Samsung Wallet and use it. Don't be tempted by something with a fancy UI or shiny bits until someone tells you you should.

What you need to know

• Android now natively supports OpenID standards for digital credential presentation and issuance.
• Users can securely store and send cryptographically verifiable digital documents across different apps.
• This update enables wider use of digital credentials for various purposes, including account recovery and identity verification on different platforms.

Google recently expanded its Digital ID access through its Wallet app for residents in the U.K. And to further expand the interoperability across different apps that store digital identities, the search giant is aiming to support open standards via various identity providers and services through the Android operating system.

Last week, through an Android Developers blog post, the company has announced that, “Android, via Credential Manager's DigitalCredential API, now natively supports OpenID4VP and OpenID4VCI for digital credential presentation and issuance respectively.”

As the search giant further explains, the Digital Credentials are cryptographically verifiable documents. They can include documents like driver's licenses, passports, or national IDs. And, through Android apps and with the help of the respective app developers, more can be incorporated and submitted digitally like education certifications, insurance policies, permits, for example in the near future.

Currently, the supported digital documents can be stored in "credential holders" apps like Google Wallet and Samsung Wallet. Some apps like banking or airline apps would, however, sometimes require the digital document for verification, which is not necessarily stored in the respective banking app.

Since Android supports secure sharing between devices through CTAP protocols. Users will be able to store multiple credentials across apps and choose which one to pick using OpenID4VP requests from websites or Android Credential Manager API.

The process involves verifier sending an OpenID4VP request to the Digital Credential API, prompting the user to select a credential. The user here only chooses a credential, not a digital wallet app. Android then redirects the request to the digital wallet app holding the credential to complete the action. The app can further perform additional due diligence before releasing the credential.

Per the recent Google Wallet announcement, soon users can use digital credentials to recover "Amazon accounts, access online health services with CVS and MyChart by Epic, and verify profiles or identity on platforms like Uber and Bumble."

Next to Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet and 1Password will also be able to hold people's digital credentials as digital wallets and support OpenID standards through Android's Credential Manager API.

This is Android Central's News Weekly, your go-to source for a concise roundup of the week's most significant tech stories. This is where we delve into the top headlines that provide the latest developments and innovations contributing to the digital landscape.

This week saw some major leaks, Android 16's alleged redesign, Galaxy S25's launch date and full specs leak, U.K. residents get access to Google's digital IDs, Samsung teases its new foldable, and Meta's Q1 earnings show major AI priority shift. Let's dive in.

Android 16's UI redesign pops up in a leak

See all the UI changes here.

This week gave us a first look at Android 16's redesign and it comes from Mishaal Rahman. He seems to have stumbled on these UI changes while digging through Android 16's Beta 4. Rahman notices some changes to the shapes of app icons, stating that the OS could bring more "geometric" shape options, as well as the standard circle.

Rahman found choices like a square, a "four-sided cookie," and a "seven-sided cookie." Next up is the notification panel which could get a blurred/transparent user interface. The tiles within the panel also seem to have gotten a more rounded- bubble like appearance.

The lock screen also might get a fresh coat of paint. Rahman's snapshots show Google may alter the font of the clock while moving the date and temperature beneath it. If there are notifications, the clock will still move to the top left; however, the date/temp information will be featured on its right side, not under it.

Additionally, the battery icon may see a pop of color as Google could ditch the old colorless icon for a horizontal battery with its percentage and a color-coded background.

Galaxy S25 Edge showed off in all angles

Read more here

WinFuture got its hands on alleged hardware and software information of the upcoming Galaxy S25 Edge.

We've been privy to many leaks that gave us similar information about the phone until now, including the latest one that talks about how the phone is set to launch on May 13.

The publication says the device will be 5.85 millimeters thick and feature a relatively small battery as a result. Like the Galaxy S25 Ultra, it will apparently be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite and made of titanium with glass covers on the front and back. As for the display, the Galaxy S25 Edge will allegedly have a high-resolution and high-refresh rate 6.7-inch AMOLED panel.

The leak purports that it uses a single 200-megapixel sensor for the main camera and a 12MP ultrawide lens with a 120-degree field of view.

There will reportedly be three colorways similar to the Galaxy S25 Ultra: Titanium Jet Black, Titanium Icy Blue, and Titanium Silver.

UK and more US states get Google's Digital Wallet

Read more here

Google announced in a press release today (April 29) that it is expanding the Digital ID access via Google Wallet to the residents in the U.K. They are joining several states in the U.S., where residents can save their driver’s licenses and state IDs in Google Wallet.

Residents will soon be able to create digital ID passes with their U.K. passports and securely and conveniently store them in Google Wallet. This move makes it seamless for people to verify their identity just with a tap of a button on their phones, rather than pulling out their physical IDs each time.

Google is expanding its digital IDs access to Arkansas, Montana, Puerto Rico, and West Virginia, which will soon be able to add government-issued digital IDs to Google Wallet. Meanwhile, users in Arizona, Georgia, Maryland, and New Mexico will be able to use their mobile IDs at the DMV.

Samsung teases a new foldable

Read more here

Samsung has finally dropped a hint that its multi-fold phone is in the works and could show up sometime in late 2025.

In its Q1 2025 earnings call, the South Korean tech giant credited its lead in the foldable phone segment to nonstop innovation and hinted that a foldable with a new form factor is in the works.

“Well, we’ve continued to lead the foldable market through our innovation. And this year, with more innovation on the foldable form factor, we will improve the competitiveness of our products even further, enabling more customers to experience the benefits of foldable,” the company stated.

The tri-fold rumor has been doing the rounds for years, but Samsung showed off a sneak peek of what’s coming. Samsung also mentioned that foldables will bring “large-screen experiences for Fold,” which might be a subtle nod to the rumored 9.9-inch screen on the upcoming Galaxy G Fold.

Meta's Q1 earnings was one for the books

Read more here

Meta made $42.3 billion in its first quarter, and profits grew by 16% over Q1 in 2024, which the company attributed to its AI push.

Reality Labs, which was impacted by layoffs recently, saw a dip in revenue, generating $412 million, short of its $440 million profits in Q1 2024, while quarterly losses grew to $4.2 billion. Meta said these losses were "due to lower Meta Quest sales" but "partially offset" by tripled Ray-Ban Meta AI glasses sales.

Meta's "five major opportunities" for further growth include using AI to build better ad campaigns, recommending more relevant social media and video content via AI, and creating "AI business agents that can do customer support and sales" in apps like WhatsApp and Messenger.

Lastly, speaking about its challenges, Meta said it's concerned about the EU ruling stating that its "subscription for no ads model is not compliant with the Digital Markets Act (DMA)." Meta says it's "in the process of engaging with the European Commission," and it senses a significant lull in profits could be in the cards.

More stories this week

Those are some of the biggest stories from this week. Meanwhile, here are some other stories that are worth catching up on:

• Samsung's One UI 7 could be causing battery woes for some
• Google TV makes binge-watching easier with new 'setup experience'
• Google One AI could have more tiers on the way, like a 'Gemini Ultra' plan
• Google Play Store just lost a ton of apps, but this is actually a good thing
• Gemini's built-in AI image editor is here to mess with your photos directly
• The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 might not use a Snapdragon chip after all
• Google Search AI Mode opens up to more people with new features
• Google Voice adds three-way calling support alongside its interface rework
• Small change in Wear OS shows it's ready to kick the Assistant for Gemini
• Samsung rolls out April updates to older Galaxy Watch models

What you need to know

• Residents in the U.K. will get access to add their passports as a digital ID on their Google Wallets.
• This will help residents expedite their identification process, which requires them to prove their age and identity safely and securely.
• Google is partnering with Rail Delivery Group, which will offer train travellers the opportunity to use their digital ID for select Railcards.
• Additionally, Google says it's exploring opportunities with the U.K.’s Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology to help verify users' identities for alcohol purchases and other purposes.

Google announced in a press release today (April 29) that it is expanding the Digital ID access via Google Wallet to the residents in the U.K. They are joining several states in the U.S., where residents can save their driver’s licenses and state IDs in Google Wallet.

Residents will soon be able to create digital ID passes with their U.K. passports and securely and conveniently store them in Google Wallet. This move makes it seamless for people to verify their identity just with a tap of a button on their phones, rather than pulling out their physical IDs each time.

To start, Google says it is partnering with the U.K.'s Rail Delivery Group, offering train travellers the opportunity to use their digital ID while travelling. However, it is important to note that these digital IDs are not a replacement for the original physical ones. Furthermore, U.K. residents cannot use digital IDs at airports for travel.

Additionally, Google states that it is also exploring certification with the U.K.’s Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology, which could enable residents to use their digital IDs for alcohol purchases and other purposes.

Adding your U.K. passport to Google Wallet is super easy. All you need to do is open the app, tap "Add to Wallet," pick "ID," and follow the steps. The process is likely very similar to adding a U.S. passport to Google Wallet.

The app will prompt you to take photos of both sides of your ID and record a quick selfie video for verification. In a few minutes, you’ll receive a notification that your digital ID is ready to use. Once it’s set up, you can access it just like you do other payment cards.

That said, Google is bringing an additional layer of protection when it comes to keeping data private. It has integrated a software called Zero Knowledge Proof (ZKP) technology into Google Wallet. This ensures that the website or apps you use to verify your identity cannot be traced back to you with the help of your information.

This technology works in tandem with the Google Wallet, allowing users to verify their identity and age simultaneously in apps like Bumble. Google says this is to "help foster a safer, more secure environment for everyone." The tech giant will also open-source their integration of ZKP technology to other wallets and online services in the future.

Digital IDs expands to more U.S. states

Google is expanding its digital IDs access to Arkansas, Montana, Puerto Rico, and West Virginia, which will soon be able to add government-issued digital IDs to Google Wallet.

The tech giant is also expanding the eligibility of its digital IDs to other services in Arizona, Georgia, Maryland, and New Mexico. For instance, users will be able to use their mobile IDs at the DMV for improved and streamlined customer experiences.

Residents in the above-mentioned states can use their digital ID pass, created from a U.S. passport, for domestic travel with TSA security at supported airports, even if they do not have a driver's license or state-issued ID.

Soon, users will also be able to use the digital ID to recover Amazon accounts, access online health services with CVS and MyChart by Epic, verify profiles on platforms like Uber, and more.

Lastly, Google Wallet is being expanded to 50 more countries, where users to view and use digital passes in the app and on the web, even where tap-to-pay isn't available yet.

What you need to know

• Google is rumored to have a "tap-to-add" card function in development for Wallet.
• Signs in a Play Services beta suggest Google could let users hold their card close to their phones to add their card hands-free.
• Nothing is confirmed as this feature may not rollout; however, if it does, there's speculation it could have some limitations.
• The NFC Forum discussed ways it wants to upgrade its experience for all consumers, like bringing "Multi-Purpose Tap" to devices.

Google is reportedly working on a more convenient (and quicker) method for users looking to add digital cards to their phones.

After tearing through a recent Play Services beta, Android Authority discovered what looks to be a "tap-to-add" feature for Google Wallet. Evidence in the code was light; however, Google's additions mention the feature by name, as well as stating, "Hold your card to the back of your device until it vibrates."

Another string states users would need to "tap card to phone" to progress with the supposed card-adding method.

At the core of this feature is what your phone would leverage, which, in this case, is NFC. The early code lacks more robust bits of information, but the publication has speculated what the meat of the feature could look like. It suggests the NFC scanning could leverage your card's number and expiration date, leaving the (arguably) most crucial aspect to you: its CVV.

Moreover, there are assumptions that Google Wallet's feature could feature a few limitations, like only accepting cards that are "EMV-compliant." The post states this involves card companies like Visa and Mastercard. Meanwhile, Android Police presumes this feature (if it rolls out) could see limited availability like Apple's version via Apple Wallet.

Improving the Digital Wallet

As Google seemingly works to build upon NFC on Android, the NFC Forum discussed ways it wants to further enhance the feature for all consumers. According to the Forum, there are plans to introduce "Multi-Purpose Tap." This would enable the possibility of multiple transactions "to be seamlessly conducted over the course of one single tap," per the executive director of the NFC Forum, Mike McCamon.

A likely scenario is Multi-Purpose Tap could let users verify their age via their digital ID, pay with their preferred card, and receive a digital receipt all in one go.

In recent history, Google's been busy upgrading the range of supported digital IDs in the U.S. There's been some resistance in bringing this functionality to all states, considering every place has its own rules and regulations regarding digital IDs. However, Google's worked to add Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, and Maryland. California already started down its path to incorporate digital IDs last August.

Google Wallet's latest update brought real-time train status updates to users. After adding a train ticket, Wallet will deliver "On Time," "Delayed," and other status updates about your ride. The feature is limited to two regions at the moment, so the bulk of us will have to wait.

What you need to know

• Google Wallet's latest updates include the addition of real-time train status alerts for users who've added their tickets.
• Users will receive notifications if their train is "On Time," "Delayed," and more; however, this is restricted to those in India and Canada (for now).
• Google also teased I/O 2025, stating there's more to come for Wallet and Pay during the event.
• Google I/O 2025 is slated for May 20 at 10 am PT.

Google's Wallet app is having an eventful week as the company details what's new and an important feature that'll catch your eye.

Google Wallet's developer blog posted the latest changelog this week, which includes a real-time status update addition (via 9to5Google). Currently rolling out are several status updates for trains. Google clarifies that users will only see these real-time updates if they've saved their ticket to Wallet.

More importantly, this is only arriving for users in India and Canada for Indian Railways and Via Rail, respectively.

The patch notes state users will receive alerts on their phones with information like "On Time," "Delayed," and more regarding where their train is. It seems Google Wallet will provide the time your train is expected to arrive at the station when delivering any of these real-time updates.

Additionally, adding a ticket will show the time you're expected to depart from your station and your estimated time of arrival for your destination.

More in store for Wallet

Another noteworthy addition is the ability to add Loyalty and Gift card passes to your Wallet via its homepage on the web. Essentially, this is an integration of Google's Loyalty Program. Meanwhile, parents/guardians in "select" countries can now give their child's account permission to add event tickets, generic passes, and more to Wallet. This feature for kids was originally announced in March, stating those in the U.S., U.K., Australia, Spain, and Poland will receive it first.

Lastly, the company slipped in a little teaser for its upcoming I/O 2025 event in May. Google says users can expect to "hear about all the changes" coming to Wallet and Pay from May 21 to May 22.

Google's I/O conference is expected to start on May 20 this year at 10 am PT. We're expecting quite a bit, such as Android 16, Android XR, Wear OS 6, and maybe even teasers for next-gen Pixel products. Live Updates are a key aspect expected to arrive in Android 16 this year, which, according to Google, will roll out much earlier in Q2 2025. That release window seems within reach as Android 16 achieved a major milestone: Platform Stability.

In short, this means developers are given one final chance to clean up their apps to avoid any conflicts when the upgrade is released. Android 16 Beta also showcased Google's work to improve the accessibility side of its software, as it includes Auracast support for hearing aids.

What you need to know

• Google Wallet is rolling out tap-to-pay for kids on Android, letting them make in-store purchases with their phones.
• The feature is launching in the U.S., U.K., Australia, Spain, and Poland over the next few weeks.
• Kids need approval from their parents to add a card, and parents can track spending or remove the card anytime.

Children can now install the Google Wallet app on their Android phones and start using tap-to-pay to make purchases in stores.

After first revealing the feature back in October, Google now says it's rolling it out in the U.S., U.K., Australia, Spain, and Poland in the next few weeks.

Google Wallet’s tap-to-pay system, similar to Apple's solution, lets users store payment information on their phones or smartwatches for easy use. Previously, kids under 13 couldn’t set up payment profiles, but that rule is changing, opening up the feature to younger users.

Kids can now use Google Wallet’s tap-to-pay feature to make contactless payments, unlocking it with a fingerprint, face scan, PIN, or passcode. The app lets them store things like gift cards and event tickets.

Parental controls keep things in check

To help parents manage their kids’ spending, there are a few built-in limits. First, kids can’t add a card to their wallet without a parent’s approval. Once a card is added, parents can monitor transactions and remove the card if needed. Plus, the cards can only be used for tap-to-pay in stores, meaning no online shopping is allowed.

The feature initially launched on the Fitbit Ace LTE. After it got a thumbs-up from users of the kid-friendly smartwatch, Google decided to bring it to Android devices managed through Family Link.

Google's move puts it in closer competition with Apple, which has long let kids use Apple Pay in stores through Apple Cash Family. But there's a big difference—Apple also allows online shopping and peer-to-peer payments, while Google Wallet sticks to in-store tap-to-pay only.

Anyway, Giving parents more control over their kids’ spending is a clear win for everyone.

What you need to know

• Google highlighted that Wallet is encountering issues with PayPal payments for users in the U.S. and Germany when in-store.
• The company states that a fix will "be rolled out soon," but has not stated when users can expect it officially.
• Google brought NFC-based payments via PayPal to Wear OS in June, which followed after a verification setting on Android.

Google is struggling with its digital payment app and a notable service to start the week.

A support page for Google Wallet detailed its recently reported issues with "in-store payments" when using PayPal (via 9to5Google). More specifically, it appears that this issue has affected the tap-to-pay experience for any Android users attempting to use their phone in-stores.

It's no surprise that consumers can attach their bank accounts to PayPal, thus facilitating the usage of it when paying via NFC in a store. Moreover, Google details that users can attach a "PayPal branded card" to their Wallet app and pay via that method, too.

As 9to5 notes, this issue is hampering Google Wallet and PayPal for every Android device and account. This mainly concerns users in the U.S. and Germany, per Google's page. So, it's likely that users won't find any relief whether they're attempting to pay via their bank account, available money in their PayPal wallet, or branded card.

Acknowledgement of the issue is the first step with the second step being the fix. Google's notice states that a "fix will be rolled out soon." No official date was given but, hopefully, it's sooner rather than later.

Google Wallet and PayPal have been a relatively quiet conversation ever since the service's inclusion. However, Google's feature drop in June for Wear OS — specifically, the Pixel Watch and Pixel Watch 2 — brought PayPal to the wearables. The company highlighted that users could begin linking their PayPal accounts to their watches as it sought to provide "multiple" payment options.

Additionally, the company announced that, as of June 22, 2024, users could no longer lean on their PayPal accounts when paying online via the Google Pay option.

For your security, the company also added a "verification setting" for transit payments. If enabled, users would need to verify a transaction when paying for a bus, metro ride, and more before that money can leave any of their accounts or cards. Users can choose to verify payments via a PIN or fingerprint.

Google Wallet is a fantastic way to store not only credit and debit cards but also IDs, boarding passes, and more, so you can leave your physical wallet at home. But did you know you can also add your passport to your digital wallet, creating an ID pass from it that you can use at various locations, including TSA checkpoints in the U.S., for domestic travel? It’s easy to do, and while you should still bring along your physical passport when traveling, having this digital ID is a good backup option.

If you want to store your passport in Google Wallet, here's how you can get started. You can also check out our guide on how to add your driver's license or state ID to Google Wallet.

How to add your passport to Google Wallet

1. Open the Google Wallet app on your Android device.

2. Tap the Add to Wallet button.

3. Select ID.

4. Select ID pass (create an ID pass with a U.S. passport).

5. Select Get started.

6. Agree to the terms that pop up.

7. You'll be directed to follow the prompts to scan your passport, so you should have it in hand. First, you'll have to scan the information page on your passport. This is the page with your photo, passport number, date of birth, and other information.

8. Next, you'll be directed to scan the security chip on your passport, which you’ll find on its back cover.

9. Finally, you'll be prompted to record a video of your face. This is required for verification purposes.

10. Select Continue.

11. Once the process is finished, you’ll receive a notice that the information is under review for identity verification.

12. Once your identity has been verified, you’ll see a notice confirming this. You can now use your digital ID pass.

A few things to note about adding your passport to Google Wallet

As noted, you will still need to bring your physical passport for travel since an ID pass is not a government-issued ID nor a replacement for your physical one. ID passes do not support international travel, but they should work with TSA security for domestic travel within the U.S. at selected supported airports.

Which airports does this include? See the list linked above, but note that this includes select locations within each state, such as the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport in Texas, the Los Angeles International Airport in California, both John F. Kennedy International Airport and LaGuardia Airport in New York, and others.

The feature is also only available in the U.S. for now, but it’s possible we may see it expanded to other countries passports and locations in the future.

Users are required to have an Android phone with OS 9.0 or higher and must have Bluetooth and Nearby devices on in order for it to work. It’s crucial that you set a screen lock in order to use this feature as well, which is an added security measure.

You can’t link your passport to an existing ID pass on Google Wallet. You will need to create a new one. But once you do, you’ll love the convenience of having an ID that’s accepted in certain places to confirm your age and country of residence. The best part is that virtually all of the best Android phones support Google Wallet.

Finally, if you decide you no longer want to have a digital version of your passport in Google Wallet, select your ID pass in Google Wallet, select More (the three vertical dots), and select Remove and Remove again. You can also do this remotely at myaccount.google.com. Go to your Personal Info, select IDs, Manage IDs, find and select the passport, select Delete, and then confirm the deletion a second time.

Google Wallet is an essential tool for many users of the best Android phones — it can hold your payment, transit, loyalty, and ID cards. For people in select states, adding your driver's license or state ID to Google Wallet can be yet another way to slim down or eliminate your physical wallet. After adding an ID card to Wallet, you can speed up your TSA security checks at certain airports in the U.S.

However, if you're new to the idea of digital IDs, the process of adding a state ID or driver's license to Google Wallet might seem daunting. In this guide, we'll review everything you need to know about digital IDs, and tell you how to get started.

Which states support digital IDs in Google Wallet?

A few years after the first state announced Google Wallet support for IDs, there are still only six states that support it:

• Arizona
• California
• Colorado
• Georgia
• Maryland
• New Mexico

Currently, driver's licenses and state IDs have limited uses. Most states require ID holders to carry their physical card on them in addition to their Google Wallet digital ID. While some states and businesses support Google Wallet digital IDs for age and identity verification, the most common use for the passes is for getting through TSA checkpoints in airports.

Not every airport supports Google Wallet, and for a list of those that do, check out Google's support page.

TSA guidance changes regularly, and you can check the most up-to-date information here. The agency also recommends Google Wallet users follow airport signage at checkpoints to confirm digital IDs will be accepted.

How to add a driver's license or state ID to the Wallet app

If you have an ID from one of the supported states, you can add it to Google Wallet using the steps below. Be sure to have your physical card handy.

1. Open the Google Wallet app.

2. Tap Add to Wallet.

3. Select ID from the list.

4. Choose Driver's license or state ID.

5. Press the button corresponding to the state that issued your ID.

6. Tap Get Started.

7. Follow the on-screen prompts to continue setup. The exact process will depend on your state, but you'll need to scan your physical license for verification.

After you've finished, you'll be able to use your digital ID in Google Wallet as your state and federal laws allow. That includes at select TSA checkpoints, and for certain age and identity verification situations in select states.

Everything else you need to know about state IDs in Google Wallet

Before leaving the house, know that most jurisdictions require you to carry your physical card in addition to your Google Wallet digital ID. Additionally, you must be using a phone running Android 9 or higher with Bluetooth and nearby devices enabled. You can only save the same digital ID to one device, so choose wisely if you have multiple Android devices. Finally, digital IDs are considered private passes in Google Wallet and are encrypted, but your information is shared with the issuing agency the first time you set it up.

With all that in mind, you'll be all set to start using your driver's license and digital IDs in Google Wallet.

Meanwhile, did you know that Google Wallet lets you create an ID pass using your passport? For more information, follow our guide on how to add your passport to Google Wallet.

What you need to know

• The US Consumer Financial Protection Bureau recently finalized a rule that would place Google's payment services under federal supervision.
• While supervision doesn't mean a particular company has engaged in wrongdoing, it does identify that it poses "risks to consumers."
• Google is claiming that the basis for supervision, complaints regarding Google Pay, shouldn't stand since the service was shuttered in the US, and is no longer available.

The US Consumer Financial Protection Bureau aims to supervise non-bank payment apps, mostly hosted by big tech companies, with a finalized rule set to take effect next month. Corporations that handle more than 50 million transactions per year will be subject to supervision, including the likes of Apple, Google, and Amazon. But one company, Google, is trying to block the move with a lawsuit filed last week, according to TechCrunch.

The CFPB is targeting non-bank companies that host wallet apps and digital payment services because the body wants these corporations to follow the same rules, and supervisory examinations, as banks and credit unions. The Bureau claims it "always had enforcement authority over these companies." Now, the official rule gives it the explicit authority to conduct proactive examinations of these non-bank companies hosting such services.

Reuters reports that the CFPB took nearly 300 customer complaints into consideration when it determined Google's payment services posed "risks to consumers." It's important to note, however, that this does not mean the company has engaged in wrongdoing. Google Payment Corp., a subsidiary, failed to investigate customer complaints regarding errors and other violations, according to the CFPB.

Google Payment Corp., meanwhile, is suing on the basis that the CFPB's designation relied on "a small number of unsubstantiated complaints" about Google Pay, which is no longer offered in the US, per Reuters. "As a matter of common sense, a product that no longer exists is incapable of posing such risk," the company wrote in the filing.

Google Pay was discontinued in the US in June, and Google no longer offers peer-to-peer payment services in the country. However, some Google Pay offerings — such as contactless digital payments at retailers — are now available as part of the Google Wallet app. Even though Google Pay is discontinued, the CFPB's rule says it requires oversight.

"Even when firms choose to discontinue offering payments to other consumers, or have not yet enabled that capability in the United States," the rule explains, "their general-use digital payment applications still comprise part of the overall market described in the Final Rule, which includes but is not limited to digitally facilitating consumer payment transactions for purchases."

The rule was published in the Federal Register today, and will take effect on Jan. 9, 2025.

"This is a clear case of government overreach involving Google Pay peer-to-peer payments, which never raised risks and is no longer provided in the U.S., and we are challenging it in court," a Google spokesperson told TechCrunch.

As Google's lawsuit begins, there are a number of questions whether the CFPB's plan to supervise non-bank digital payment services will continue when President-elect Donald Trump's administration takes over next year. Under President Biden, the CFPB aggressively sought to make new rules, and this effort has reportedly continued even after Trump's election victory in November.

What you need to know

• New Mexico is the latest state to let residents store their state IDs in Google Wallet, joining states like California, Arizona, and Georgia.
• While physical IDs are still required for law enforcement and age checks, more businesses and TSA checkpoints are using the NM Verifier app for smartphone-based verification.
• Google Wallet is also rolling out digital passport IDs, making travel through TSA checkpoints a bit smoother.

New Mexico is getting with the times, as residents can now save their driver’s licenses and state IDs in Google Wallet.

New Mexico is the latest state to adopt Google's digital identification technology. This makes it the sixth state to join, with California joining the club back in August. The other states include Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, and Maryland.

Adding your New Mexico ID to Google Wallet is super easy. Just open the app, tap "Add to Wallet," pick "ID," and follow the steps. You’ll snap photos of both sides of your ID and record a quick selfie video for verification. In a few minutes, you’ll get a notification that your digital ID is ready to use. Once it’s set up, you can access it just like your payment cards.

Although New Mexico law still requires carrying physical IDs for law enforcement and age checks, more businesses and TSA checkpoints are using the NM Verifier app, letting residents verify their IDs with just their smartphones.

Furthermore, Google Wallet is rolling out support for digital passport IDs in the coming weeks. This new feature, being rolled out to eligible users, lets you store a digital version of your US passport in the app, making it easier to get through certain TSA checkpoints.

While Google Wallet’s digital ID feature is super convenient, it doesn’t fully replace your physical ID just yet. Google recommends still carrying your physical ID, especially when traveling, until digital IDs become more widely accepted.

To create a digital US passport ID in the app, just tap the option to "create an ID pass with your U.S. passport." Then, follow the on-screen instructions to finish the setup.

If you’re planning a domestic flight with a digital passport, it’s a good idea to check the TSA’s map of supported states and airports.

What you need to know

• Google is pushing an update today (Dec 3) that lets users pair even more cards to the Wallet app on a Wear OS device.
• The newly supported cards include hotel rooms, campus IDs, and "corporate badges" for offices.
• Google Wallet as been busy expanding digital ID support to states like California alongside a teaser to bring in passports.

Having Google Wallet on your wrist is useful for quick payments, but this latest Wear OS update expands its card support.

As December gets underway, Google is rolling out its latest Play Services update (v24.47), which is heavily focused on Android and Wear OS. The standout portion of this update regards Google Wallet's new expansion of card and country support for users.

Concerning the former, the company's support page states that Wear OS devices are receiving an update that brings access to cards for hotel rooms, campus IDs, and "corporate badges."

Additionally, the page details that "more countries" can now use Google Wallet. This involves the app's appearance on Android, as well as Wear OS watches.

It's worth noting that this expansion joins Wear OS device's support for credit and debit cards. There were also a few choices for transit that users could pop onto their watch, as well as Google Wallet's support for passes via QR or barcode.

The Play Services update is also rolling in a developer feature addition that lets "Google and third-party app developers to support Device Connectivity related processes in their apps."

The update started rolling out on December 2, so users should give it a few days before Google Wallet's new support hits their devices.

It's good to see Google extending Wallet support on Wear OS devices after it's been occupied with its plans to incorporate passports into digital IDs. The company teased such a possibility in September, stating it would begin "beta-testing" U.S. passports in Wallet. A digital ID like this isn't being accepted everywhere as Google stated only "select" Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints domestically will allow it.

Those discussions started a month after California prepared to enter the digital ID game for its residents. The state started testing such functionality with DMV employees before reaching out to regular civilians at a later date. It was stated that users could enter "Add to Wallet" and tap "ID Card" to add their state ID. Similar to the passport situation, California only allowed its digital IDs to be used at "select" terminals at San Francisco International Airport, San Jose International Airport, and Los Angeles International Airport.

California is joined by several more U.S. states that will soon accept digital IDs like Iowa, New Mexico, and Ohio, which have entered testing.

Google Wallet is a very useful app for organizing all your passes in a single app. Everything from boarding passes for your next flight, transit passes, to the loyalty card of your favorite coffee joint — all can be easily accessed from one place. When you first set up Wallet, it automatically scans your Gmail and picks up information on passes you might already have in emails. But even if it's not able to detect a certain pass or you don't see the 'Add to Google Wallet' option for a new online pass, there's a simple way to manually do it.

We'll also walk you through how you can add a new custom pass to Google Wallet via an image of a pass that you may have on your phone. Wallet automatically fills in all the pertinent information that would be needed and saves it as a card. The next time you need to scan your subway pass or a membership card at the gym, you can simply fire up the app and tap on the card you need, without worrying about the physical card or jumping through multiple apps. It truly is one of the best Android apps from Google, today.

How to make a custom pass in Wallet via a barcode or QR code

1. Open the Google Wallet app.

2. Tap the Add to Wallet button with the '+' symbol in the bottom right corner.

3. Choose the type of card you want to add. We've selected 'Loyalty card.'

4. Next, you'll see a list of popular options for your region.

5. For this example, we've chosen 'Watsons Malaysia.'

6. Now, you can either manually enter your member ID and save it, or use the 'Scan your card' option.

7. Scanning is always better as it's a lot quicker. Simply point your camera's viewfinder to the barcode or QR code on the card and it should be done in a second.

9. Your newly added card should show up on Wallet's main page.

How to make a custom pass in Wallet by scanning a card or from an image in your gallery

1. Follow the instructions above till the second step.

2. Here, choose the 'Photo' option which should be separated from others by a wavy line.

3. If you have a physical card you wish to scan, hold the phone directly above it and press the capture button.

4. You can crop & rotate, add a filter, retake, or delete the photo if needed.

5. To add a photo of your card from your image gallery, simply press the symbol on the left of the shutter button to browse your gallery for the image of your pass.

Note: Your card must have a barcode or QR code for it to be successfully added to Wallet.

Another thing we noticed was that if your pass or card has both a barcode and a QR code, the app gets confused and warns you about there being too many codes. An easy fix is to simply cover one of the codes and then try rescanning.

Manage all your passes from Google Wallet

Google Wallet has had a rocky history, with it first being an exclusive app for Nexus phones for contactless payments to eventually being killed off in favor of Google Pay. The Wallet app is here to stay though, at least for the foreseeable future as Google has shuttered the Google Pay app in the U.S. as of June 2024. Apart from peer-to-peer payments, the current Wallet app can do pretty much everything else.

You can store debit and credit cards in Google Wallet and Google just added dozens of new banks in 2024 alone. If you do plan on adding your banking cards, make sure it's secure so it's not misused in the event you lose your phone. Other than adding your loyalty cards and boarding passes, you can also use Wallet to store additional items like digital car keys, corporate office passes, hotel keys, and so on. It's amazing how much use you can get out of a single app.

What you need to know

• The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau finalized a rule expanding its oversight over non-bank wallet apps hosted by big tech companies.
• Payment services and wallet apps from Apple, Google, Amazon, and others would fall under the CFPB's purview and potential scrutiny.
• The CFPB argues that once-small wallet apps have grown to become a "critical financial tool," which is why it's expanding its authority and will conduct "proactive examinations" of these companies.

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) today shared a finalized rule that gives it expanded federal oversight over digital wallet apps and payment services, specifically those hosted by non-bank companies. The rule covers corporations handling more than 50 million transactions per year, which includes Apple, Google, and Amazon. Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, and Amazon Pay are just a few of the payment services that may now come under more scrutiny from the CFPB.

"Digital payments have gone from novelty to necessity and our oversight must reflect this reality," said Rohit Chopra, who is the director of the CFPB, in a press release. "The rule will help to protect consumer privacy, guard against fraud, and prevent illegal account closures."

The CFPB argues that big tech companies offer services similar to banks and credit unions, the latter of which are subject to "supervisory examinations." However, tech conglomerates haven't been held to the same standards. The government agency claims it "always had enforcement authority over these companies," but explains that this new rule will give it the explicit authority to conduct proactive examinations of companies hosting large digital payment services.

These examinations will be to ensure tech companies like Apple, Google, and Amazon are following the law. Additionally, they will assess risk and aim to find potential problems before they create real problems. The CFPB wants to avoid "millions of consumers losing access to their funds," according to its press release.

The rule specifically targets large wallet apps and payment services, like Google Wallet, Apple Wallet, Amazon Pay, PayPal, Block, and Zelle. These kinds of services combined to account for more than 13 billion consumer payments annually. However, single-retailer payment services — such as the Starbucks app — are exempt.

According to CNBC, large banking companies supported the rule, wanting big tech companies to follow the same rules and protocols that they've followed for decades. CNBC also notes that the future of this rule could be in jeopardy if it doesn't align with the incoming Trump administration's goals and those of new CFPB leadership.

For now, the rule is pushing ahead, and will take effect 30 days after it's officially published in the Federal Register. That means users of digital wallet apps, like Google Wallet, will have a few extra layers of safeguards and consumer protection.

What you need to know

• Google announced that it's bringing Google Wallet and tap-to-pay support to Family Link devices next year.
• The functionality will let kids use cards and passes on their devices with parental supervision.
• After first appearing on the Fitbit Ace LTE smartwatch, it'll soon come to Family Link Android devices.

Google is bringing a long-requested feature to Android phones managed with Family Link next year: Google Wallet for kids. The company told 9to5Google that starting in 2025, kids will be able to download the Google Wallet app on supervised Family Link devices, making contactless payments possible. Of course, there will be a handful of tools and limitations that give parents control of their child's activity.

For starters, the version of Google Wallet making its way to kids won't include support for online payments. Kids can make in-store purchases using Google Wallet's tap-to-pay feature, but can't buy things online. Additionally, parents will have to approve a credit or debit card before it can be added to their child's Google Wallet app. Every time a kid wants to make a purchase, they'll need to authenticate the contactless payment — just like on the full Google Wallet app. 

Google Wallet for kids became popularized with the release of the Fitbit Ace LTE earlier this year, a smartwatch designed for children. The Fitbit Ace LTE supports contactless payments, and now, Google will bring a similar experience to more devices managed with Family Link. 

Parents won't have to manually approve every payment, but they will see a transaction history for their child's purchases. If something goes wrong, Family Link managers can remotely remove a Google Wallet card from their child's devices. In all, the experience will be similar to handing a child a credit or debit card — but with one less thing for them to lose. 

Some functionality is limited; kids can't add IDs or use health cards, but they can use event passes. It'll also be a somewhat limited rollout initially, starting with the U.S. and select countries in 2025, with a wider expansion to follow. 

“Following the positive response of tap-to-pay on Fitbit Ace LTE devices, we’re expanding tap-to-pay for kids to Google Wallet," Google said in a statement to 9to5Google. "The new experience is built with safety in mind, and will allow parents to supervise their kids’ usage – including approving new cards, easily removing cards and viewing transaction history.”

What you need to know

• Google today announced plans to start beta-testing U.S. passports as digital IDs in Google Wallet soon. 
• Additionally, residents of Iowa, New Mexico, or Ohio will soon be able to add their state IDs to the Google Wallet in the coming months. These three states join California, which was added last month. 
• Google Wallet will also gain support for more commuter benefit cards, starting with Edenred and HealthEquity. 

Google has been teasing improvements to pass and digital ID support in Google Wallet since January, and now, it's announcing a few major changes. In a press release today, Sept. 12, the company laid out plans to add support for three more state IDs and more commuter benefit cards in the Google Wallet. More importantly, it'll be beta-testing support for U.S. passports in Wallet.

There are two main reasons that digital IDs haven't taken off in the many years since they were first introduced. For starters, only a handful of states support them, and even fewer airports and restaurants accept them. The law requires you to carry your physical ID in every state that supports digital IDs in Google Wallet, limiting its usefulness. Google's plan to add support for U.S. passports could solve at least one of these common grievances in the future.

It should be noted that U.S. passports added to the Google Wallet can only be used to pass through select Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints domestically. You can view the full map of TSA checkpoints that accept digital IDs here, which includes major hubs like LAX and SFO in California and JFK and LGA in New York City. However, the digitized version of your passport in Google Wallet will not allow you to pass through U.S. Customs and Border Protection domestically or abroad. 

Still, support for passports is significant because it allows anyone eligible for a U.S. passport to use the Google Wallet to speed through select TSA checkpoints. Previously, you needed to live in and have a driver's license for one of the few states that permitted digital IDs in Google Wallet. When support for U.S. passports goes live — the beta test is only described as "starting soon" — it will immediately make digital IDs more accessible to U.S. residents. 

Adding a passport to Google Wallet will be fairly simple. It'll start with pressing a prompt titled Create an ID pass with your U.S. passport. Then, you'll scan the security chip embedded in the back of your passport. You need to take a selfie video to confirm it's you adding your passport to Google Wallet. From there, the app will notify users when their pass is ready. It'll usually take a few minutes. 

Google says that passports are secured with encryption and your fingerprint, PIN or passcode is required to access them. The company adds: "You’re in control of the information shared: before using your digital ID for identity verification, you can review what information is being requested."

In addition to U.S. passports, three more states will support digital IDs in Google Wallet "in the coming months." Iowa, New Mexico and Ohio will join the current list of states supporting Google Wallet IDs: Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, and Maryland. Google wants you to be able to use these identification passes for more than just TSA checkpoints — in Colorado, a new MyColorado app feature will make it possible for businesses to accept Google Wallet IDs.

Finally, Google is expanding the ways you can use Google Wallet for commuter transit in the U.S. an abroad. Prepaid commuter benefit cards, starting with those from Edenred and HealthEquity, will be supported first.

Is this how digital IDs in Google Wallet will become ubiquitous?

I've written in the past that getting 50 states to agree on everything is incredibly difficult. That's why digital IDs in Google Wallet are a tricky thing to make ubiquitous. In the years since digital IDs were conceptualized, neither Apple nor Google have been able to get even a double-digit number of states onboard. Well, instead of trying to get 50 entities onboard, it just has to get one: the federal government. 

I'd argue getting digital U.S. passports to be supported at every TSA checkpoint is just as hard, if not harder, than getting each and every U.S. state to allow their IDs to be added to Google Wallet. To be clear, today's announcements show Google is still working with state governments to allow their driver's licenses to work as digital IDs. However, by supporting U.S. passports, Google can effectively cut out the middle men (the states) and allow every U.S. citizen to use a digital ID in Wallet.  

Will it work? Only time will tell. But I'm much more confident in Google's new plan to support U.S. passports than its continuous efforts to add states to Google Wallet, which has slowed to a crawl at times. If digital IDs are to become ubiquitous one day, they will be passports, not state IDs. 

We have to give Google credit here. The company seems to have quietly pulled off an impressive feat that no one really expected. I said that Google Wallet was officially an Apple Wallet competitor last month, but if U.S. passport support takes off, it'll be better than Apple Wallet.

What you need to know

• Google and the state of California announced last week that 1.5 million state residents can now add their mobile driver's license to the Google Wallet.
• The company previously said that it was working on bringing more states onboard its digital ID program. 
• Google Wallet has been upgraded in a few key ways this year; it can now create a digital pass out of basically anything, from tickets to store loyalty and insurance cards.

Google spent much of this year talking up its digital ID program, describing plans to add more states and make the entire experience more ubiquitous. Well, it added a pretty big state last week: California, which is home to nearly 40 million people. Google and the state of California jointly announced a pilot program that would initially allow 1.5 million people to add their mobile ID to the Google Wallet.

Part of the reason it's so difficult to grow Android or iOS mobile ID adoption is that many U.S. states are trying to create their own offerings from scratch rather than work with Apple or Google. Recently, New York launched its Mobile ID (MiD New York) program independently, requiring a standalone app. In fact, California had its own app — the California DMV Wallet app — before opening up the Google Wallet pilot program. The California DMV Wallet app will still be used as another option. 

"It's never been easier to keep a digital driver's license and identification card in California," said Gavin Newsom, the governor of California, in a statement. "The state continues to work to offer convenience for those opting into the mobile driver’s license program, now with the option of using Google Wallet."

To be clear, mobile IDs still have a long way to go before they are truly useful. Even now, Californians who store their driver's license in the Google Wallet are required by law to keep their physical card with them. The mobile version of their ID will only come in handy when passing through TSA checkpoints at select airports and at some restaurants. 

However, adding California is still big for Google Wallet, and it'll become even more important if the pilot program is opened to more state residents. For starters, Google now supports the same number of state IDs as Apple. Google Wallet has Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, and Maryland, while Apple Wallet has Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, Maryland, and Ohio. Getting a state the size of California and securing a state that already has its own mobile wallet app are both huge victories for Google. 

While Apple announced that it would be participating in a similar pilot program with California, the mobile IDs launched in Google Wallet first, and the timetable for Apple Wallet support is unclear.

Previously, a key drawback to using Google Wallet over Apple Wallet was that fewer IDs, cards, passes, and tickets supported it. Additionally, there weren't as many places that accepted Google Pay. While I still have some reliability and user-experience concerns about Google Wallet, many of these supposed "cons" to using Google Wallet are simply outdated. Google has come a long way just this year alone, and the addition of mobile California IDs — as big as it is — isn't even the best thing to come to Google Wallet of late. 

Google Wallet does one thing better than Apple Wallet

Recently, Google added a feature to the Wallet app that lets you create a pass from basically anything. You can scan a card in your real wallet — think an insurance card or a store loyalty card — and Google will use its text recognition and AI smarts to turn it into a Google Wallet pass. If the whole thing works as expected, the pass will be created and organized without any manual user action. If there are passes that need to be kept secure, Google Wallet can automatically create a Private Pass for those cards.

This feature alone makes the Google Wallet more versatile than the Apple Wallet. I've been a frequent user of both digital wallet apps for years, and I loved how almost all passes that supported mobile versions worked with Apple Wallet. Some supported Apple Wallet and Google Wallet, but few supported Google Wallet exclusively.  

Now, with this feature, you don't even need a card, ticket, or pass to support a digital variant for it to work with Google Wallet. Anything you can find in your wallet should work in a digital form, and this is incredibly convenient and useful. Throw in the fact that Google Wallet has added support for hundreds of banks in 2024, and it's clear progress is being made. Though I'm still skeptical of the utility of mobile IDs, California is a big get for Google Wallet. 

Looking at these improvements holistically, Google Wallet is now ready to give Apple Wallet a challenge. I doubt that many people are switching between iOS and Android based on wallet apps, but that doesn't really matter. iOS clearly had a check in the win column for many years thanks to the Apple Wallet, but that isn't as clear anymore. If Google builds on 2024's momentum, Google Wallet should be a force moving forward. 

This is Android Central's News Weekly, your go-to source for a concise roundup of the week's most significant tech stories. This is where we delve into the top headlines that provide the latest developments and innovations contributing to the digital landscape.

This week, a landmark ruling could lead to some big changes for Google Search, the latest Garmin changes could bring better but more expensive apps, Google launched some new hardware ahead of the Pixel event, California may finally bring digital IDs to Google Wallet, and Meta just got rid of an entire first-party studio.

Google's woes are just beginning

Read more here.

On Monday (Aug. 5), a judge ruled that Google holds an illegal monopoly with Search, years after the U.S. Justice Department filed a lawsuit alleging that Google was using unfair practices to maintain its position in the market.

These practices include paying companies like Apple to set Google as the default search engine on its devices and making it hard for competitors, such as Bing, to reach consumers.

"For years, Google has secured default placements through distribution contracts," Judge Mehta states in the 289-page ruling obtained by The Verge.

"In exchange for revenue share, Google not only received placement at the key search access points, but its partners also agree not to preload any other general search engine on the device. Thus, most devices in the United States come preloaded exclusively with Google."

Google responded by saying that the ruling notes that its search engine is the best but "concludes that we shouldn't be allowed to make it easily available." The company plans to appeal but is preparing for another trial in September over its advertising technology.

New Google TV Streamer and Nest Learning Thermostat

Read more here and here.

Google unveiled two new hardware devices just a week before unveiling the new Pixel smartphones. The first is the Google TV Streamer, which will ultimately replace older devices like the Chromecast with Google TV dongles. It features a new design with an ethernet port and is powered by a "newer" chipset that should boost performance. There is also 32GB of storage, which is 4x as much as Google's previous devices.

The Google TV Streamer has a new remote with a customizable magic button and a new Find My Remote function. It also acts as a smart home hub, with access to controls straight from the TV and Matter support, and the device doubles as a Thread border router. Lastly, the Google TV Streamer features AI recommendations powered by Gemini.

The new Nest Learning Thermostat is a beautiful new smart home device that resembles a Pixel Watch. The thermostat features a rotating dial for easy navigation and uses AI to set up smart schedules that learn your preferred temperatures and adjust accordingly. If your routine changes, like waking up earlier or going to bed later, Smart Schedule tweaks itself to keep you comfortable and save energy.

There's also a unique Dynamic Farsight feature that shows information when you're far from the device but displays more details as you approach it.

This comes in addition to new AI integrations coming to Google Home, from AI-generated descriptions to camera activity searches and more.

Garmin makes some expensive changes

Read more here.

Garmin is adding some useful new apps to its IQ store, and it's making it much easier to pay for them. The company announced that the Connect IQ marketplace will now accept Garmin Pay for users who wish to purchase apps and watch faces. Users will be able to see the price of content directly within the marketplace, and this will make it easier for developers to make money off of their creations.

The plus side is that paid apps and watch faces appear to be much more premium than non-paid ones. Garmin has partnered with NASA, Disney, and more for some fun, dynamic watch faces, and there's also a new camera control app for GoPro devices.

This came not long after Garmin added support for YouTube Music on its watches, which is a huge plus for any Garmin smartwatch owner who doesn't use other music streaming services like Spotify.

Meta sheds an entire first-party studio

Read the exclusive here.

Meta has revealed to Android Central that it is closing Ready at Dawn Studios, a VR development studio responsible for games like Echo VR.

It's not exactly clear why the studio has been cut, but it hasn't released a game since 2020. A Meta spokesperson told Android Central that the cuts weren't being made to "save money," per se. Rather, these cuts are being made to ensure that Reality Labs stays within the new budgetary constraints and that Oculus Studios can make a "better long-term impact" in VR development.

The closure follows reports that Meta is cutting Reality Labs' budget by 20% as the division continues to lose billions every quarter despite impressive Quest sales. However, Meta assures that it's still committed to VR development, although it's unclear if the company plans to port the studio's Lone Echo games to the Quest.

Ready at Dawn Studios employees will receive the same severance that previous Meta layoffs offered.

California may soon join the Digital ID getdown

Read more here.

Only a handful of states support digital IDs, and even then, they're not widely accepted everywhere. However, having a digital version of your ID could be handy, and California seems nearly ready to join the party.

According to 9to5Google, California has been testing digital IDs on Google Wallet with some DMV employees. Adding a state ID appears to be fairly simple; users would only need to set it up through the Wallet app, not with the CA DMV Wallet app. Even so, users will be encouraged to carry their physical IDs, as the digital ones may not be accepted everywhere, including at certain airports.

For now, it's unclear when this will roll out, but it's a positive sign as Google looks to eventually make the Wallet app the only thing you need when you leave the house.

Those are some of the biggest stories from this week. Meanwhile, here are some other stories that are worth catching up on:

• Maybe you should wait for the Google Pixel 10
• Check out the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold flaunting its official case in the wild
• Google's Wear OS 5.1 reportedly runs an entirely new version of Android
• Text message exploits are scarier than ever, but you can protect yourself with these tips
• Huawei's tri-fold phone breaks cover, spotted with its former CEO
• Telegram drops a Web3 upgrade for its built-in browser
• Google's next Pixel Buds might bring Gemini straight to your ears
• YouTube tests a new ad format that isn't such a buzzkill
• Samsung Quick Share now lets you double up on your daily file-sharing
• Samsung's Galaxy A series could get a Galaxy AI makeover later this year

What you need to know

• A report states California is preparing to bring its state ID to Google Wallet's digital experience.
• A simple set of steps will let users utilize their ID at "select" TSA terminals without needing California's specific digital wallet app.
• Google was recently spotted testing a new Wallet feature that will let users store "everything else" like text-based documents.

Google's digital wallet is preparing to receive another state's ID as it continues to build up its support portfolio.

As spotted by 9to5Google, the State of California is working on supporting a legal digital ID in Google Wallet at some point this year. The state has reportedly started testing support for Wallet among DMV employees and will likely extend this to regular civilians in the future. Early information suggests that adding the state's ID to Wallet will be straightforward.

Users can soon hop into Wallet's settings and tap "Add to Wallet." From there, tapping "ID Card" will inform users what's required to proceed.

The good news here is that it doesn't seem as though users will need California's created app, CA DMV Wallet, to use a digital ID. This should save users time as Wallet is typically available across all Android phones and can hold a majority of your bank cards, credit cards, and more.

The digital state ID variant will let Californians use it at "select" terminals at SFO (San Francisco International Airport), SJC (San Jose International Airport), and LAX (Los Angeles International Airport).

Earlier this year, Google's director of product management for Google Wallet, Dong Min Kim mentioned that "more states" will support digital IDs in the following months. There weren't any specifics discussed, however, it seems California will be among the new states enabling support. Wallet has supported Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, and Maryland IDs since 2023.

Digital wallets, specifically Google, have had some maneuvering to do considering support for state IDs requires a close working relationship with the state in question. Additionally, Kim states that Google wants to get Wallet to a point where folks can leave the physical version at home — but that's a far-off reality.

While digital IDs are useful for convenience, it's still recommended that people bring the physical version in case something goes wrong.

In other news, it was discovered that Google wants Wallet to help users store "everything else." An APK teardown showed the company's work to develop a text-based document scanning feature for student IDs, passports, and resident cards. Wallet will "automatically detect" whether your uploaded document is general or private and categorize it appropriately.

What you need to know

• Google is working on a feature that adds text-based documents like student IDs, passports, and resident cards to the Google Wallet.
• The feature is said to automatically detect the document's category and segregate it as general or private. Private documents need to be authenticated by the user.
• Google also says that the company will not store any information about private passes on its system; it will be stored locally on the device.

Update (July 18, 11:44 am ET): Google confirmed that this feature has started rolling out to devices. However it remains unclear which devices the latest Google Wallet feature will first be spotted in. 

Imagine not having to frantically shuffle through your luggage to look for important documents at the airport and simply showing your phone at the counter. Google seems to be working on a handy feature that allows users to scan and store text-based documents in their digital wallets for easy storage and access.

A recent APK teardown by AssembleDebug showed this feature in action. It looks like it can automatically identify several different types of documents (via Android Authority), such as passports, resident permits, student IDs, and even auto insurance. 

The publication notes that the 'Add to Wallet' menu will have a new option called 'Everything else.' Through this, users can take a photo of their document in question, and Google Wallet will automatically scan it and save a digital version onto the app. The app allows you to edit and review your information in case it was wrongly captured. Users can also make changes to their ID number, date of expiration, name, and address. However, before you scan your document, users must agree to a disclaimer.

The disclaimer reads, "Scan a photo of your pass, and Google will use AI to create a digital version of it in Google Wallet." 

"Google will use the photo of your pass to determine what kind of pass you're adding and to suggest the content of the pass." 

Once agreed upon, your phone will capture the document and segregate it into two sections: normal and private. Private IDs are locked and need the user's authentication to be accessed. If the feature doesn't categorize the document, users can manually choose and fill in relevant information by clicking "add field"—only five additional fields can be added.

"You'll have to verify each time you view or use a private pass," the disclaimer states.

Google also says that the company will not store any information about private passes on its system; it will be stored locally on the device.

It remains unclear when this feature will be rolled out to all users; however, it seems fully functional on the APK teardown. Android Central has contacted Google about this, but it did not get back to us in time for publication. We will update this article once we have more information.

What you need to know

• Evidence shows that Google has continued to progress in the development of e-passports in the Wallet app.
• The company explains that an ID pass created from your passport can be used at "select" airline checkpoints, but it is not to be seen as the replacement for the physical version.
• Digital passports in Wallet will arrive as U.S. exclusives and can work through NFC and QR codes for domestic flights.

Google is preparing to bring digital convenience to our passports, however, it might be wise to carry its physical form still.

Prominent X tipster AssembleDebug recently posted a screenshot of the upcoming feature through Google Wallet (via Android Police). The tagline for the function reads, "create an ID pass with your passport." The feature seems closer to release now, with the photo stating that e-passports will be restricted to U.S. users. 

The tipster then referenced a previous post, highlighting some of the functionality users can expect.

As spotted in a previous beta, the company stated that an ID pass created for a passport would let users verify their "identity for domestic flights at select airline security checkpoints or online purchases."

More digging showed that users could tap their phone's reader (NFC), or the authorities could scan the passport's generated QR code. Moreover, Google will have some safety rails in place, such as personal authentication before sharing information.

The beta showed that users will have a chance to "review" any information that's been requested of them. Also, another layer of security will prompt users to verify their identity by entering a previously set fingerprint, PIN, or password.

While Google Wallet is preparing to incorporate digital passports, it would be a time saver, but it's not all sunshine. Even now, the company is still urging users to carry their physical passports with them as this digital variant isn't a replacement. This is likely due to the "select TSA checkpoint" caveat.

With Google Wallet's development continuing, it seems likely that e-passport support in the U.S. will roll out sooner rather than later.

In other news, the company rolled out a feature that lets users double their Android phone as a hotel room key. Participating hotels will let users add their room key to their Wallet via their app or website. The good thing here is that the addition of digital room keys means there's less chance you misplace them.

Moreover, the digital version piggybacks off your phone's NFC for an easy "tap to open" experience. Support for this feature is set to arrive first for The Clarion Hotel Post in Gothenburg, Sweden.

What you need to know

• The NFC Forum, which is the standards body for Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, announced its first preview of the next generation of NFC.
• It's called Multi-purpose Tap, and it will allow you to use NFC for multiple things at the same time. 
• For example, you could verify your age via mobile ID, pay with a credit card, and get your digital receipt — all with a single NFC tap. 

Mobile payments are used everyday by many, and they're made possible thanks to Near Field Communication (NFC) technology. There are other ways to make digital payments, such as with QR codes, but none are as simple as using NFC. A tiny chip in a smartphone, credit card, or smartwatch can communicate with another chip in a payment terminal, facilitating contactless payments. 

NFC started as a relatively niche tech feature, but it's now considered essential on Android phones, iPhones, and wearables. It's even used in physical credit cards, since NFC  and tap-to-pay are more secure than an EMV chip or a magstripe. Skimmers — devices that inconspicuously attach to the top of payment terminals — can steal the information from an EMV chip or a magstripe. It can't intercept contactless payments made via NFC in the same way, and that's a big security benefit to using tap-to-pay. 

NFC is just as essential as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or 5G in 2024. Now that the standard has grown, its creators are already looking ahead to the future. The NFC Forum is the standards body that handles NFC — led by board representatives from companies like  Apple, Google, and Qualcomm — and it outlined a first look at the next generation of the standard. It's called a Multi-purpose tap, and it will expand the amount of data that can be transferred with a single NFC tap. 

The NFC Forum hopes to leverage consumers' familiarity with NFC to eventually roll out multi-purpose tap without much changing for users. There will be more things that can be done with a single NFC tap, but ideally, the experience won't be convoluted for end users. 

“Multi-Purpose Tap will bring even more convenience to contactless user experiences by making it possible for multiple transactions to be seamlessly conducted over the course of one single tap,” said Mike McCamon, who is the executive director of NFC Forum, in a press release. “Consumers and retailers love the security, reliability, and convenience of contactless payments — imagine also logging loyalty points or getting your receipt over that same instantaneous tap.”

It's easy to see the vision the NFC Forum is trying to make a reality with a multi-purpose tap. Right now, you can use a digital payment card with a service like Google Wallet or Apple Pay to complete a transaction on an NFC-enabled payment terminal. But if you want to earn loyalty points, you'll need a store loyalty card, too. Need a receipt? You might need to provide a phone number or email address or simply settle for a paper copy. The idea behind the Multi-purpose tap is that all of these common tasks could be handled by a single NFC tap in the future.

Of course, the main obstacle to the adoption of the Multi-purpose Tap for NFC will be industry adoption. There's an official document that explains the NFC Forum's goals for the new standard, but the details are yet to be refined. This application for NFC might not require new hardware for the devices making contactless payments, like credit cards or phones. However, it seems hard to believe that payment terminals and point-of-sale software won't need to be upgraded to support this functionality. Getting businesses and governments on board may be tricky because this kind of hardware isn't cheap. 

For now, Multi-purpose Tap is in its early stages, and we have no idea when it might become available for consumers. It does appear poised to solve a unique problem that will start affecting NFC and mobile wallets soon, though. 

Why this feels like the natural next step for NFC

Mobile wallets, like Google Wallet and Apple Wallet, are constantly expanding and adding support for new types of cards, passes, and features. Their functionality is so robust that some people don't need to carry physical wallets anymore. In some states, a digital driver's license is acceptable as a form of ID. Throw in credit cards, loyalty cards, and boarding passes, and it's possible that mobile wallets are overwhelmed.  

The bottom line is that while digitizing one part of your wallet is great, digitizing the whole thing isn't as convenient. For example, if you need to board a flight and your ID and boarding pass are both in Google Wallet, it'll take you two NFC taps and a bit of navigation to get through airport security. The same goes for if you need to verify your age before making a purchase. Using digital cards and passes in Google Wallet isn't as convenient if it takes multiple taps. 

That's precisely the problem that Multi-purpose Tap is trying to get ahead of. Imagine tapping your phone on a payment terminal, verifying your age, making a payment, and getting your receipt immediately. Imagine you're at the airport, and a single tap verifies your boarding pass and your ID simultaneously. Having too many digital Google Wallet items can become a nuisance, but Multi-purpose Tap would flip the script. 

I'm excited about Multi-purpose Tap, but I'm also skeptical. It's mostly just a proof-of-concept right now, and there's a long way to go. However, if it ends up being widely adopted, Multi-purpose Tap could solve the convenience problem that is starting to affect mobile wallets. 

What you need to know

• Google Wallet now lets you store digital hotel key cards on your Android phone, replacing physical keys and extra hotel apps.
• You can add your digital key via the hotel’s app, website, or email instructions by tapping "Add to Google Wallet" and signing in.
• The Clarion Hotel Post in Gothenburg, Sweden, is the first to adopt Google Wallet for digital keys.

Google Wallet now allows you to store digital hotel key cards on your Android phone, eliminating the need for physical keys and additional hotel apps.

Google recently updated Wallet's Help page to reflect the addition of support for hotel keys, as spotted by 9to5Google. With participating hotels, you can now store your digital room key right in the app. This not only means no more physical cards but also lets you access keycard-protected areas of the hotel with just your phone.

Traditional hotel key cards have been the standard for room access, but they come with their own set of problems. They're easy to lose, which can lead to annoying and sometimes expensive issues for guests when it's time to check out.

To add a digital hotel key to Google Wallet, simply go to the hotel’s app, website, or follow instructions sent by email. Just tap "Add to Google Wallet," sign in securely, and your digital key will be saved in the app.

Google Wallet uses Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, the same tech behind "tap to pay" cards. This lets you speed up transactions by just holding your phone near a terminal. But the app isn't just for payments. If you have cards with scannable barcodes, the app can display them too, so you don't have to carry the physical card around.

Meanwhile, since the iOS 15 update , Apple Wallet has allowed iPhone users to store digital hotel keys. Now, Google Wallet brings this convenience to Android users.

However, while Google Wallet offers a great solution for digital hotel keys, it’s not yet available everywhere. Hotels need to actively integrate with Wallet for this feature to work. Right now, this adoption is still in the early stages, so not all hotels offer this option yet.

The Clarion Hotel Post in Gothenburg, Sweden, is the first to adopt Wallet for digital keys. Although this feature depends on individual hotels joining in, its debut at such a prominent hotel hints at a big change in the hospitality industry.

What you need to know

• Google rolls out a new Play Services patch that brings American Express card support to the Wallet app on Fitbit devices.
• The update brings updates to Android users, adding Pix support, new ID features, and e-wallet support for Google Pay.
• The choice arrives as Google previously informed users that the Fitbit Pay app is preparing to end its services on July 29.

Google's latest Play Services is heavily focused on its digital Wallet app, adding a new card on Fitbit as its payment service prepares to conclude.

As detailed in its System patch notes, Google Play Services version 24.25 brings Wallet support for American Express cards on Fitbit devices (via 9to5Google). The update extends Wallet updates to Android devices, with the company stating new features have arrived for users adding an ID to their digital wallet.

Wallet on Android picks up Pix support as an alternative payment method for shoppers. Additionally, users receive support for adding an e-wallet as a payment method through Google Wallet.

Alternatively, users can use a paired e-wallet in Google Pay to complete a transaction.

These new features for Wallet on Android and the new card support in Fitbit Pay rolling out and should soon become more widely available.

Google's newfound American Express support for Fitbit users arrives as the company is preparing to conclude Fitbit Pay services in July. The company informed users via an email in May that Google Wallet will succeed all Fitbit Pay app functions on the wearable company's devices on July 29.

Google stated that the movie should "benefit" the user as it opens up a portfolio containing around 5,000 supported banks and cards to add. Fitbit Pay's impending shutdown will affect the following devices: Fitbit Charge 6, Charge 5, Charge 4, Charge 3, Sense 2, Sense, Versa 4, Versa 3, Versa 2, and the Versa.

Fitbit encourages users to begin transferring their paired cards and banks to Wallet ahead of the July 29 cut-off date. Users have retained the ability to utilize the Fitbit Pay app on their trackers and watches since May. However, the option to add cards was removed.

Google's absorption of Fitbit into its ecosystem continues as the company recently shut down the wearable's standalone online store.

Ever heard of an RFID blocker? If you're interested in wallet cases for your phone or even wallets in general, you might have heard the term. A lot of wallets and wallet accessories, such as MagSafe wallet add-ons, boast RFID-blocking as a feature. What is this feature, and why is it important anyway? I'm here to shed some light on this matter.

Contactless payments weren't as widespread a couple of years ago, but they're all the rage right now. NFC-based services like "Tap to Pay" and the marriage of Google Wallet with Google Pay have ushered in a new era where we feel comfortable storing our credit cards, debit cards, IDs, and even driving licenses digitally. Our overall trust in such payment methods has increased. Even modern debit and credit cards that use "Tap to Pay" rely on NFC to work.

Unbeknownst to most people, however, this system has a glaring security flaw. Although many security mechanisms protect personal and financial details when you depend on contactless payment mechanisms, these NFC-based systems are still unable to prevent certain activities.

Don't worry; I'm not going to bore you with technical details that you don't understand anyway. The problem is extremely simple, to the point that it's ridiculous.

Understanding contactless payments

Let's start by breaking down how NFC-based payments are made. You use your phone's or smartwatch's Google Wallet or e-wallet by enabling NFC and adding your supported credit or debit cards to it. Most banks in the world require you to set up limits for contactless digital transactions. Select transactions over a certain limit may require additional authentication, such as a PIN, a one-time password (OTP), or biometric verification.

However, for contactless digital transactions within the bank's specified limits, your device does not usually need additional authentication after initial setup and verification. After all, this is what makes it a convenient payment method on the go. You tap your device or "Tap to Pay"-enabled card to make a payment, and then you're off on your way.

The problem with relying on NFC is that it activates as soon as it detects a compatible payment device nearby. Your Android phone, wearable, or card automatically makes a payment when it detects a compatible machine nearby, usually if the phone has been unlocked within a few minutes of the purchase. As long as your device's NFC is enabled, this will happen automatically. It gets worse with your cards because those don't have the option to disable NFC.

You could place your wallet or phone near a contactless payment card machine, and it could automatically make a payment, even if you didn't intend to use it. Now, this might sound silly, but there are actual reports of people facing this issue.

For example, a user called Aram Dermenjian 2298 took to the Google Wallet support page to address this issue in January 2023. The user complained that their Google Wallet made a payment without their consent because of the unlocked phone's close proximity to the payment machine.

Aram Dermenjian 2298 had no intention of paying for their purchase with their Google Wallet's primary card as it was a business expense. However, because of the nature of NFC payments, the payment automatically went out because their phone detected the payment machine and initiated the transaction.

I am not a fintech professional by any means, but this non-consensual transaction sent alarm bells ringing through my head. There are so many unfortunate scenarios where this flaw could be taken advantage of. The worst part is that the only real solution to this is to disable your NFC when your wallet isn't in use or to add more passwords and locks for additional verification, which kills the convenience of the system itself.

This is where RFID blockers come in

While you can add a ton of extra preventive measures to your phone or wearable to stop this from happening, things aren't as easy with your credit or debit cards. This is where RFID and NFC-blocking wallets come into play.

The best way to block NFC or RFID signals is by placing an aluminum plate on top of your cards or on the back of your phone. This can be done with the help of an RFID-blocking wallet or wallet case for your phone. Fortunately, these can be found a dime a dozen. It is a pretty simple and easy idea that reduces the number of things you need to carry. Most importantly, however, this solution prevents unfavorable scenarios from happening, such as unintentional payouts from your e-wallet or bank cards.

You can find an RFID-blocking wallet or wallet case at affordable pricing from most retailers. If you're using a flagship phone like the Galaxy S24 Ultra, recommend the Scooch Wingmate as it's a wallet case with an RFID-blocking metal plate baked in.

If you don't want to buy an accessory, even some aluminum foil will do the trick. Now that you're aware of this situation, be sure to take the necessary precautions.

What you need to know

• Fitbit has sent an email to its users, warning them that its Pay app will disappear later this year on July 29.
• The email states users will "benefit" from Wallet's extensive list of supported banks/cards and that users can continue to use Fitbit Pay until July 29.
• Users can make the switch to Google Wallet now through the "devices" section of the Fitbit app so long as it's running version 4.14.1 or later.

Fitbit is starting to send emails to users utilizing its Pay app that the program will soon disappear on July 29 as its Google ecosystem integration continues.

As spotted by DroidLife, the company's email states that it is updating its contactless payment feature "from Fitbit Pay to Google Wallet." The notice adds that users are likely to benefit from the change as the number of available banks and cards increases, thanks to Google Wallet's support.

The email adds that users have until July 29 before Fitbit Pay officially becomes Google Wallet on its devices. With that, users will retain the ability to utilize their cards until the app disappears on the previously given date. The option to add new cards will no longer be available at this time.

This decision will impact a wide range of Fitbit's devices, and those watches/trackers are as follows:

• Fitbit Charge 6
• Fitbit Charge 5
• Fitbit Charge 4
• Fitbit Charge 3
• Fitbit Sense 2
• Fitbit Sense
• Fitbit Versa 4
• Fitbit Versa 3
• Fitbit Versa 2
• Fitbit Versa

Fitbit advised users to begin switching to Wallet and taking their cards with them. As the publication notes, Google's digital wallet started rolling out in the Fitbit app through version 4.14.1 and later. The company's email states users can initiate the switch by tapping the "devices" icon in the app and then tapping the "Wallet" icon.

Fitbit started picking up Google Wallet support in 2022 when it launched the Versa 4 and Sense 2 smartwatches. Since then, the company has continued to forgo its own Pay app in favor of Google's, as we've seen with the Charge 6 tracker. Wallet has continued to gain support for even more banks and their cards, and the company added support for 30 more in March.

The app now supports over 5,000 banks and bank cards, following approximately a hundred additional ones from December and January.

Elsewhere, Google has continued to move Fitbit more and more into its aura. Last week, Fitbit's standalone store was shut down, and now, it directs consumers to the Google Store instead. The company will likely continue producing devices, but its software is truly what Google is after, as we've seen with its Pixel Watch. It's a move that reminds us of when Apple acquired Beats, which was also for its audio software.

Update (April 24, 8:55 pm ET): Google says the PIN requirement for using Google Wallet on Wear OS for tap-to-pay is actually just a glitch.

What you need to know

• Google Wallet might start asking for a PIN on Wear OS watches, potentially making payments less convenient.
• Some Reddit users report having to input a PIN for every payment attempt on their Wear OS watches.
• The PIN prompt seems limited to a few users, suggesting it could be a test, a glitch, or a gradual rollout by Google.

Paying with your Wear OS watch with Google Wallet might get annoying soon, as the app might start asking for a PIN before you can use the speedy payment feature.

Google Wallet taps into your Android phone and NFC to make payments super easy. It even jumped onto your beloved Wear OS watches, so you could pay straight from your wrist. But here comes a security update that might make paying with Wear OS a tad more irritating.

Some users on Reddit are reporting about Google Wallet making them enter a PIN every single time they try to pay with their watch (via 9to5Google). This is different from before, where just a tap did the trick. Unless your device figures out it's far enough from your body, it's not going to bug you for a PIN.

Wear OS smartwatches already make you set up a PIN for Google Wallet security, so this new pop-up for every tap seems like a bit much, especially on those tiny screens.

Since it seems like only a few users are getting hit with this new prompt, there are a couple of things that might be going down, as noted by 9to5. Maybe Google is testing out this feature on a select few watches. Or, it could be a glitch in the app. Or, Google might be slowly introducing the PIN requirement to everyone, one watch at a time.

Google recently made phone users re-verify their Wallet information after a few minutes. So, it's possible the company is doing something similar for Wear OS, which definitely removes the convenience you get with those speedy wrist taps.

However, the updated Google Wallet support page doesn't even mention smartwatches, hinting that this new authentication requirement might not be on purpose.

Anyway, it's important to remember that this could be a security improvement Google is testing (even if it is a bit annoying), assuming this new feature is indeed heading to smartwatches.

Update

Google told Android Central via email that it is working on fixing the problem with Google Wallet's tap-to-pay feature on Wear OS, where it keeps asking users to enter a PIN for each transaction.

"We are aware of an issue that requires a small number of Wallet users to re-enter their PIN in order to make a payment from their Wear OS device, and we are working to address the issue," a Google spokesperson said. "There is no new authentication requirement for Wear OS users."

The company also clarified that this issue isn't connected to the recent changes it made, which now require Wallet users on Android phones to authenticate their device before making a payment through Google Wallet.

Google Wallet is the default payment, ID, and transit pass app for most Android phones, supplanting Google Pay. The term "Google Pay" still exists for making contactless NFC payments in stores, but you use the Google Wallet app for those transactions.

Now that the Google Pay app is shutting down later this year, you're probably curious which Pay features will transfer over to Wallet. You may also have heard that Google Wallet supports features like driver's licenses, tickets, and medical info, and you may want to know how to access these.

Our in-depth Google Wallet guide will break down its history, list of key features, recent news and updates, and everything else you need to know!

Google Wallet, summarized

The original Google Wallet launched in 2011 as a Nexus phone exclusive for contactless credit card payments at specific locations. A lack of NFC-enabled phones, insufficient retail partnerships, and little consumer interest sunk the initiative.

Android Pay took Wallet's place in 2015 as a payment system with much more business support and infrastructure, while Wallet scaled down into a peer-to-peer payment system. 

By 2018, both services had consolidated into the Google Pay brand, a single app for both tap-to-pay and sending money to friends, and Google Wallet ceased to be. Over time, Google Pay added boarding passes, event confirmations, transit balances, and other tools that weren't strictly "payments."

Google's love of renaming services for a marketing boost came full circle in July 2022, when it rebranded its payment service to Google Wallet once again. Google Pay persisted as a peer-to-peer payment app with its wallet-like features removed, but it will shut down on June 4, 2024.

Google Wallet will continue to support "Google Pay" payments in stores worldwide. It won't enable P2P payments like the original Pay app, however, and your current Google Pay balance will only be transferrable through the website once the Pay mobile app shuts down.

Google Wallet supports a variety of banks and credit cards across over 80 countries. It also supports a variety of other passes, IDs, and stored information that we'll break down in the next section.

Generally speaking, Google Wallet pulls information from other Google apps on Android phones. So, for example, if you receive an email on Gmail with a delayed flight time, it'll notify you and change the stored boarding pass information.

What can you store in Google Wallet?

First and foremost, you can deposit credit and debit cards in Google Wallet. Most banks and cards are compatible, and Google has added dozens of new banks in 2024 to fill out the list before Google Pay's shutdown. You can ensure your bank is included by checking the list of supported contactless payments sorted by country.

As a sidenote, we have a guide on how to lock down your Google Wallet cards if your phone is stolen, so that the thief can't use tap-to-pay with those stored cards.

You can add your loyalty or membership cards, then tap your phone or watch to apply discounts or balances, or even pay directly for items. Check if your loyalty card is eligible by tapping Add to Wallet > Loyalty card and entering the program name.

Plus, you can keep your boarding passes and event tickets in Google Wallet, so entering a plane or stadium is as simple as pulling them up and tapping your phone. In March 2024, Google updated Wallet so that Gmail confirmation emails automatically export passes to Wallet, saving you the trouble.

Google Wallet also hosts transit cards and parking passes, though once again, there is no guarantee that your local public transit or parking system will support Google Wallet without checking. Currently, San Francisco, Washington, D.C., and Toronto are the only cities to support Google Wallet transit passes or payments.

You may add COVID-19 vaccine passports or other medical info to Google Wallet as well.

Other Google Wallet functions include digital car keys, corporate office passes, and hotel keys. Digital car keys require a relatively recent phone running Android 12 or later, and not all cars will support them. As for corporate badges, only 10 countries support corporate passes today, and your employer must buy into the program.

Google's biggest challenge, however, will be to enable digital driver's licenses or student IDs. Certain American states have begun to support digital IDs, but it's extremely limited at the moment.

Can I store my driver's license in Google Wallet?

During Google I/O 2022, VP of Product Management Sameer Samat announced on stage that "we're working with states here in the U.S. and governments around the world to bring digital IDs to wallet later this year, starting with driver's licenses."

That statement turned out to be a bit optimistic: The ID program did launch in Maryland by the end of 2022, but Google took until October 2023 to add digital ID support for Arizona, Colorado, and Georgia residents.

Dong Min Kim, Google's director of product management for Google Wallet, did promise in January that "Digital ID will be a cornerstone for us in the next year" and that more states' IDs will come to Wallet in the coming months. But we've yet to hear anything since, and there are regulatory hurdles to making this happen.

To add a driver's license to Google Wallet, you'll need an Android phone (version 8 or higher) with Bluetooth and Nearby Devices active and a screen lock protecting it.

With all of those prerequisites fulfilled, you can simply open the Wallet app and tap Add to Wallet > ID card. You'll then have to take photos of the front and back of your ID, then record a short video of yourself to submit for verification. At that point, you should be able to use your ID in lieu of a physical card at participating airports.

As for adding a student ID to Google Wallet, we have a guide for that as well, but it will once again depend on whether or not your school supports the feature.

Google Wallet: Banks

We can't possibly include the full list of Google Wallet banks here, so we'll link you to this Google Support page that has a dropdown menu linking to each country's list of banks.

Just for the United States alone, the list of "other participating banks" appears to have thousands of options. Once you've selected a bank in Google Wallet, you'll most likely need to log into the bank's website, or enter a PIN or authorization code.

You can also choose to make Paypal a payment method in Google Wallet, though only in the United States and Germany.

Which countries support Google Wallet?

Currently, Google Wallet has replaced Google Pay in the following 80 countries, listed below:

• Albania
• American Samoa
• Argentina
• Armenia
• Australia
• Austria
• Azerbaijan
• Belgium
• Bermuda
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Brazil
• Bulgaria
• Canada
• Cayman Islands
• Chile
• Columbia
• Costa Rica
• Croatia
• Cyprus
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Dominican Republic
• Ecuador
• Estonia
• Faroe Islands
• Finland
• France
• Georgia
• Germany
• Greece
• Greenland
• Guam
• Guernsey
• Hong Kong
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Ireland
• Isle of Man
• Israel
• Italy
• Japan
• Kazakhstan
• Kyrgyzstan
• Kuwait
• Latvia
• Liechtenstein
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Malaysia
• Malta
• Mexico
• Moldova
• Monaco
• Montenegro
• Morocco
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• North Macedonia
• Northern Mariana Islands
• Norway
• Peru
• Poland
• Portugal
• Puerto Rico
• Qatar
• Romania
• San Marino
• Serbia
• Singapore
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• South Africa
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• Taiwan
• Thailand
• Ukraine
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States
• U.S. Virgin Islands
• Vietnam

Google Wallet vs. competing payment apps

Android users, specifically Samsung phone owners, have two main choices for their payment app: Google Wallet or Samsung Wallet. The latter launched around the same time as Google Wallet, combining Samsung Pay and Samsung Pass into one service. Sound familiar?

Like Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet collects your digital payment cards, boarding passes, vaccination cards, and digital car keys, with the eventual goal of adding IDs and licenses.

Unlike Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet stores passwords, a remnant of the feature on Samsung Pass. Plus, anyone invested in crypto can "monitor their digital asset portfolio by checking the value of their cryptocurrencies across various exchanges" within Wallet.

Samsung Wallet is available now, but only on Samsung phones via the Galaxy Store — whereas Google Wallet is available on all Android phones via the Play Store — and only 21 countries, well short of Google's list.

Looking beyond the Android phone ecosystem, we also have a general guide on how the five main payment systems — Google Pay, Samsung Pay, Apple Pay, Meta Pay, and Amazon Pay — compare to one another. 

To briefly summarize, Google and Apple have the most robust features and widespread presence for both mobile and web payments. Amazon Pay is more limited but takes very little setup if you have a Prime account, while Meta Pay is most useful for frequent Facebook Marketplace users.

What's new with Google Wallet?

The biggest recent change to Google Wallet was a photo function, which lets you take a photo of a physical pass and have that data auto-transcribed into Wallet, rather than making you type it out yourself.

Google Wallet added support for Apple Wallet files in early 2024, though the rollout is still ongoing. People have noticed glitches, since ".pkpass" file expect you to be using an iPhone, but those glitches should be fixed over time.

Another controversy arose when Google Wallet began requiring you to verify your identity before making contactless payments in certain countries. While some countries already required this, others let you make payments indefinitely so long as they weren't above a certain threshold.

Google later created "Verification Settings" for Wallet, letting you decide in advance whether to require authentication before certain actions, such as using Wallet as a transit pass.

In late 2023, there was a Google Wallet vulnerability that exposed credit card information via a standard NFC reader. This glitch was eventually fixed.

Which smartwatches support Google Wallet?

The list of smartwatches that support Google Pay is exceedingly long. Basically, any Wear OS watch is going to support the feature, since it's a Google operating system. Even the latest Galaxy Watches let you choose between Google Pay and Samsung Pay, now that Google and Samsung have partnered for Wear OS 3.

In terms of the latest devices to add Google Wallet, both the Fitbit Sense 2 and Versa 4 have Wallet support thanks to Google's Fitbit acquisition. And of course, Google's own Pixel Watch will be the first to receive any new Wallet features and updates.

What you need to know

• Google Wallet is now rolling out its support for Apple Wallet passes to more users following its limited availability in March.
• Its functionality is not working properly as users face errors when downloading a pass saved in Apple's ".pkpass" format.
• Support for Apple's standard pass format joins Google's work to bring more boarding passes to its Wallet app.

It seems that Google Wallet is activating support for Apple Wallet passes for more users, but a problem has been spotted early on.

According to 9to5Google, the ability of Google Wallet users to access important ".pkpass" files has become widely available to more users. This file format is Apple's format used for digital passes.

Unfortunately, the publication has spotted a frustrating problem with Wallet's support for Apple's format: not every app supports it on Android.

It was discovered that the "Add to Apple Wallet" option consistently failed to appear in a few Android apps. Services weren't giving users the appropriate Apple file format for them to throw into Google Wallet for safekeeping. Another attempt delivered an error when adding some minor league baseball tickets to Wallet.

The error prompted users to try opening the link in Safari (the default browser on iOS), but Android users cannot do that.

The report adds that users can use an iPhone to transfer a pass to their Android device if problems become too troublesome. The publication states users can "share a pass via messaging and other apps" from an iPhone to an Android device, which will deliver the necessary ".pkpass" for them to import into Google Wallet.

More users should begin noticing support for Apple's digital pass format available on Android today (Apr. 5) and beyond. More importantly, apps should also start conforming to this newfound support, but it will likely take time to iron out the errors.

Android users started noticing support for Apple's pass format in March, though it was constricted to a smaller number. Such support has been coming for a long time, as Google stated it was working on implementing functionality back in 2022. However, evidence of the feature in development was only spotted in 2023.

The latest support for Wallet is one of many, as Google recently brought in additional support for more boarding passes directly from Gmail. Users receiving confirmation emails for movies and flights can now easily pop those passes into Google Wallet. The update also included archiving older passes, keeping what's important clean and concise.

•  Phone deals: Best Buy | Walmart | Samsung | Amazon | Verizon | AT&T

What you need to know

• Google Wallet has added a new verification settings menu for Android devices.
• This setting allows users to decide whether or not they need to be verified before paying for a ticket on public transport.
• This will help to make Google Wallet even more secure.

The ability to store card details, transit passes, boarding passes, and contactless payments, means Google Wallet is a convenient way to save time.  Now, Google is working hard to make Wallet even more secure and user-friendly by introducing a new ‘Verification settings’ menu.

The new addition, as spotted by 9to5 Google, lets users decide whether or not verification is required, specifically when paying for a transit ticket. Under “Wallet settings” is the new “Security” heading, under which “Verification settings” are listed. When selected, the user can “choose if you’ll need to verify it’s you when using your items stored in Wallet.” 

At the moment, the only available option here is “Transit payments.” When the “verification required” toggle is on, Wallet will require “verification for paying for bus, metro, and more with a credit or debit card.” This means the usual options for a device include a PIN or fingerprint scan, for example.  

If a user already has a transit pass stored in Wallet, the toggle will be switched on by default. The wallet will then require verification before paying with their bank card. If no transit pass is stored, this option will be automatically turned off. 

This means that anyone without a transit pass can quickly pay for their ticket without needing to verify themselves. Users can, however, switch it on even if they don’t have a transit pass if they want that added security.

Importantly, this feature is only applicable to paying for transit. As it says underneath the toggle: “You’ll still verify for all other payments with this card.” This means that even if you disable the setting, it won’t allow someone to swipe your phone and go wild with your credit card. Although, they may get to enjoy a day out on your local metro system.

The new setting is available in version 24.10 of Google Wallet. It’s another example of how Google is trying to strike a balance between security and convenience on Google Wallet. A recent change for some European users where all transactions now require verification (previously, unlocks weren’t always required for small payments) has met a mixed response. Hopefully, this latest update will be a little less controversial.

What you need to know

• Google Wallet previously allowed users to make contactless payments in small amounts without unlocking their device, though the exact terms varied by region.
• Last month, Google added a disclaimer to a related support article that warned users that their payment wouldn't go through unless they had recently unlocked their device.
• Now, this change is rolling out in Europe, and users took to social media to share their frustration with this change. 

Google is rolling out a change to Google Wallet that will make using contactless payments for small transactions more secure but also more frustrating. Google Wallet works in different ways based on a user's region, and in Europe, it previously allowed users to pay in small amounts without unlocking their devices. The threshold varied by country, and in some places like the U.S., all transactions required a device unlock. Now, Google is making device unlocks a requirement for all users in all reasons, and not everyone is happy about the change. 

The company updated a support document last month related to tap-to-pay transactions, previewing the shift in Google Wallet behavior (via 9to5Google). 

"Coming soon, your credit and debit card won't be charged for retail payments unless you've recently used a verification method, like your fingerprint or PIN," the notice reads. "Some users may already need to verify to make a payment. If you’re asked to verify it’s you, complete verification steps on your device to make a payment."

U.S. users won't notice a change because device unlocks were already necessary for all transactions other than those using express transit. However, users in other countries could make transactions under a given threshold without unlocking in Google Wallet. For example, people in Canada could make payments under $100 CAD without unlocking their devices. In the U.K., that limit is around £45 GBP.

However, people in regions where device unlocks were not always required are finding they now need to authenticate each contactless payment in Google Wallet, no matter the transaction size. The only exception is if a user has recently used a verification method. So, if you authenticated Google Wallet a minute ago and haven't locked your device, you won't need to unlock it again. 

Though this change makes Google Wallet objectively more secure, not everyone is happy about it. A few users on Reddit criticized the shift, and others called it a non-issue. One thing many seem to agree on is that Google should have left the choice up to the end user whether to require device unlocks for every transaction. 

Google wallet verification each time with small payment. S23u... from r/GoogleWallet

Google's choice to require verification for Google Wallet payments of all denominations has brought up an age-old debate in cybersecurity: do you want convenience or security? Users on social media disagree, but in this case, Google has made the decision for them. 

What you need to know

• Google added support for 30 U.S. banks to the Google Wallet app in March, bringing the total number of supported banks to over 5,000.
• The move follows roughly a hundred new banks that were added to Google Wallet in December and January.
• Google's growing base of supported banks in Google Wallet comes as the company plans for a Google Pay shutdown in the U.S.

Google Wallet is getting bolstered with new features each month as it becomes Google's primary digital banking and wallet app on Android. The company previously announced that Google Pay will officially be shut down on June 4, 2024, at least in the U.S. Ahead of the forced transition, Google is making sure as many banks are supported in Google Wallet as possible. In March, that meant adding 30 new banks to the Google Wallet app in the U.S. 

Google has made steady progress adding supported banks to the Google Wallet app in the U.S. It brought 42 new banking institutions on board in January, and 44 banks joined in December 2023. Now, as documented on a Google support page and first discovered by Android Police, there are 30 more newcomers in the Google Wallet app. 

Below is the full list of banks added to the Google Wallet app this month, including financial institutions from 14 different U.S. states. People who use these banks can now add digital bank cards to the Google Wallet app for Android. 

• AtoB 
• Bank of Odessa (MO) 
• Beach Cities Commercial Bank (CA) 
• BFG Federal Credit Union (OH) 
• Chillicothe State Bank (MO) 
• Citizens Bank of Eldon (MO) 
• Coastlife Credit Union (TX) 
• Community Bank of Oelwein (IA) 
• CorePlus Federal Credit Union (CT) 
• First Farmers & Merchants Bank (Cannon Falls, MN) 
• First Farmers & Merchants National Bank (Fairmont, MN) 
• First Farmers & Merchants National Bank (Luverne, MN) 
• First Farmers & Merchants National Bank (MN) 
• First Farmers & Merchants State Bank (Brownsdale, MN) 
• First Farmers & Merchants State Bank of Grand Meadow (MN) 
• First National Bank of Le Center (MN) 
• First State Bank (OH) 
• Fortress Bank (IA) 
• Lusitania Savings Bank (NJ) 
• One Detroit Credit Union (MI) 
• Pacific Postal Credit Union (CA) 
• Pay by Extend 
• Ravalli County Federal Credit Union (MT) 
• Sidney State Bank (MI) 
• Sixth Avenue Baptist Federal Credit Union (AL) 
• SubZero / Avaya 
• The Bank of Star Valley (WY) 
• Waterfall Bank (FL) 
• Windward Bank 
• Xformative Payment Systems (NY)

You'll notice immediately that many of these banks are smaller, and you might not have even heard of them before. In fact, six First Farmers & Merchants branches are included in the total of 30 new banks added to Google Wallet in March. That's partly because nearly all of the major U.S. banks are already supported by Google Wallet. In total, more than 5,000 banks in the U.S. work with Google Wallet. 

Still, it's important for Google to continue working with smaller, local banks to get them into the Google Wallet. Not everyone uses a major bank, so getting these niche institutions onboard is key to making the Google Wallet ubiquitous among Android users. 

Beyond bank cards, Google is actively adding support for new features in the Google Wallet app. It previously announced plans to add more supported U.S. state IDs this year. More recently, Google made it possible to use Apple Wallet passes in the Google Wallet app.

What you need to know

• After mentioning the feature back in 2022, Google seems to finally add support to the "pkpss" file format to its wallet app.
• Users can now import downloaded "pkpss" file format on Google Wallet to store digital passes.
• The ability has been in the works since last year. However, some users reported that they could finally use it, and an official update is expected soon.

Google Wallet has been receiving new updates lately, and another one has been added to the mix: the ability to add the "pkpss" file format, which is the one that Apple Wallet uses.

According to Mishaal Rahman, Google Wallet features the ability to import digital passes from the "pkpss" format. Rahman notes that he received a tip from a Telegram user (Cob) showcasing the addition of the downloaded "pkpss" file format on an Android phone.

As mentioned, the pkpss file format is usually seen in Apple Wallet; however, a pkpss format download can be added to Google Wallet through a few simple steps, per the video shared by Rahman on X. Accessing the file from the system and later agreeing to some terms and conditions, the user could easily add it to the Google Wallet app as a digital pass.

The support for this feature has been long overdue, as Google said it was incorporating this feature back in 2022. However, Rahman spotted evidence of it being in the works last year. Regardless, the tip shared by Rahman on X indicates the feature is being rolled out to a few people. Some users who responded to Rahman's post have also acknowledged the feature's availability on their devices in certain regions.

The criteria for the rollout to Android devices still need to be determined. Nonetheless, we expect it to roll out soon officially through an update to the Google Wallet app. With the soon-to-be-expected rollout, users can easily store tickets and digital IDs as well as import them even in the "pkpss" file format on their Google Wallet app. The new ability eliminates relying on third-party services to import the said file format.

The new feature comes after Google Wallet recently gained the ability to save movie tickets and boarding passes directly from Gmail. Users getting ticket confirmations from Gmail could see their tickets being added directly to the Google Wallet app. The same update has also included the ability to archive older passes.

• Phone deals: Best Buy | Walmart | Samsung | Amazon | Verizon | AT&T

What you need to know

• Google Wallet is adding support to directly incorporate movie tickets and boarding passes from email.
• It currently supports the confirmation emails received in the Gmail app.
• Other nifty features are included in the update, such as the ability to archive older passes.

Google Wallet received a new update last week that makes it much easier to store movie tickets and boarding passes on the app.

Users who usually get the confirmation email for their movie tickets and boarding passes will now automatically be added to the Google Wallet, notes Android Developers in the accompanying release notes. 

The integration is believed to be live for a few global movie chains next to some airlines, and the search giant plans to expand this further. Needless to say, this functionality is currently functional for Gmail users on their Android phones.

With the new release, the flight passes will now utilize the DATETIME format by default to showcase the date and time on the front of the pass when added to Google Wallet.

The latest update further has some notable improvements for the Google Wallet app. It includes an easier way to manage passes that appear in the wallet app. Users can manually archive passes, which will be moved to a new “Archived Passes” section, previously dubbed “Expired Passes.” It applies to WearOS-powered smartwatches as well. Additionally, users can still unarchive their used or expired passes to view them on their home screens.

The new update also fixes a minor bug that prevented the title label from appearing on the back of the respective card while it was always showcased on the front, widely known as in card view. 

Furthermore, the latest release of Google Wallet in the U.S. includes a new beta feature. Users who generally store Loyalty cards in the app can now view their benefits while shopping through Google Search and Google Shopping. Users interested in utilizing the feature can join the pilot program by contacting respective support.

Lastly, Google Wallet will soon gain AppLinkData definitions for card viewing, letting users access the app or website linked to the service more easily. It further prompts you to install the app if it hasn’t already been installed on your Android device.

• Phone deals: Best Buy | Walmart | Samsung | Amazon | Verizon | AT&T

What you need to know

• Google has added support for nearly 100 new banks in the Google Wallet app over the last two months.
• The latest round of additions saw 42 banks join the Google Wallet app in January 2024.
• The added support comes ahead of Google's planned shutdown of the Google Pay app, which will occur June 4, 2024.

Google has been steadily making improvements to the Google Wallet app, adding support for new features and new ways to pay. The company has been consistent in its position that Google Wallet is the future and Google Pay is the past. To that end, it announced that Google Pay will officially shutter on June 4, 2024, in the U.S. Ahead of that shutdown, Google is adding more supported banks to the Google Wallet app.

The full list of supported banks can be found in a Google support document, and it includes 42 new institutions. Android Police first spotted the additions, which include the following banks:

• Abilene Teachers Federal Credit Union 
• Austin County State Bank (TX) 
• Bank of Monticello (MO) 
• Bison State Bank (MO) 
• Boost Your Score 
• Carolina Trust Federal Credit Union 
• Century Next Bank (LA) 
• Citizens First Bank (WI) 
• Community National Bank in Monmouth (IL) 
• Cottonwood Community Federal Credit Union (ID) 
• County-City Credit Union (WI) 
• Diamond Valley Federal Credit Union (IN) 
• First National Bank of Manchester (FNBM) (KY) 
• First State Bank of LeCenter (MN) 
• Forest Area Federal Credit Union (MI) 
• Granite Preferred 
• Highway Crossroads Credit Union (MO) 
• Hope Federal Credit Union (WV) 
• KS Bank, Inc (NC) 
• Lake Region Bank (MN) 
• Liberty Bank NA (CA) 
• LincOne Federal Credit Union 
• Lion's Share Federal Credit Union (NC) 
• Monroe County Teachers Federal Credit Union (FL) 
• Netevia 
• PAHO/WHO FCU (DC) 
• Pheple Federal Credit Union 
• Planters Bank, Inc 
• Racine Municipal Employees Credit Union (WI) 
• Rave Financial Credit Union 
• River Region Credit Union (MO) 
• SPC Credit Union 
• Star of Texas Credit Union (TX) 
• Telhio Credit Union (OH) 
• Ten Credit Union 
• Tongass Federal Credit Union 
• Thumb Bank & Trust (MI) 
• Today card 
• TrailNorth Federal Credit Union 
• Valley Bank of Commerce (NM) 
• Washington State Bank (LA) 
• West Alabama Bank & Trust (AL) 

These are all relatively small banks, so you might not recognize them. Nearly all of the major players in the banking industry already support Google Wallet, but it's a good thing that Google continues to add more institutions. Not everyone uses big banks, and support for smaller ones in Google Wallet allows those people to access critical features like contactless payments.

The 42 newcomers in the Google Wallet app as of January join the 44 banks that were added the month prior. Google has added support for a total of 86 banks over the last two months, plus some high-profile services. Namely, Venmo is now supported in the Google Wallet app as of December 2023. 

However, Google's recent feature additions to Google Wallet — such as supporting more banks — won't outright replace Google Pay. When the app is discontinued later this year, Google's official peer-to-peer payment system will go with it. Additionally, some Google Pay features will be relegated to a web client, like transferring a cash balance. 

Although there were definitely some benefits to Google Pay, the Google Wallet app is the more versatile choice. Aside from bank cards and payment methods, Google Wallet can hold things like passes or digital IDs. Plus, as is shown by the 42 new banks that were added last month, Google Wallet is the one that Google is actively improving.

What you need to know

• Google announces that it will shutdown its U.S.-based "Google Pay" app on June 4, 2024.
• Users will lose the ability to view shopping deals in the app while also being unable to send, request, or receive money from friends through the P2P method.
• Google is pushing users to utilize Wallet after the June 4 closure, which is a strategy it did in 2022 with load of other countries.

Google is informing users that its standalone "Google Pay" app will be discontinued starting June 4, 2024.

According to its Keyword post, the company adds that the app will disappear for all U.S.-based users. While this could be alarming, users will still be able to use Pay's notable features like tap to pay in stores and management tools directly through Google Wallet. The company states the process of using the Pay to purchase items will remain the same. However, there will be some changes to this service.

From now until June 4, users can continue to use Google Pay to "view and transfer" their balance on the app to their bank account. However, once the date passes, users will still have the ability to transfer money into their account, but only through the website.

Google Pay's end will bring its P2P (peer-to-peer) payment option to a close, as well. The post states users will no longer be able to send, request, or receive money from others in the U.S. Google Pay app version.

Lastly, finding deals was straightforward in the Pay app since it featured the "Trending Deals" segment. While users are losing out on this handy feature with the app's closure, Google urges them to use Search as an alternative by typing "shop deals."

Google Pay's end marks the company's push to encourage users to use Google Wallet instead. It reiterates Wallet's ability to store your cards, transit cards, driver's licenses, state IDs, and more in one unified place.

Meanwhile, Google took a similar approach, removing the Pay app in favor of Wallet back in 2022 for users in other regions.  Google Pay was kicked out to make room for Wallet in every country that supported it aside from Singapore and the United States. Recently, Google announced it will begin supporting more digital IDs for people in more states. The company's product manager stated, "Digital ID will be a cornerstone for us in the next year."