Google Wallet just got even more useful with a big update that focuses on meeting the daily needs of users.
An update is coming along with a big drop in Google features in June and adds three new features for ID, credit card and ticket management applications. The most important of these is the official launch of support for people living in Maryland in the field of state ID and driver’s license. We first saw ID support late last year when the beta came out. It seems that the requirements are still the same: you must have an “Android 8.0 or higher phone” and the device lock must also be enabled.
These digital ID cards can also be used on TSA PreCheck lines at certain airports to speed up the screening process. The full list can be found on the website TSA official website. Digital ID support should roll out to Arizona, Colorado, and Georgia residents in the coming months.
Moving down the list, users will be able to digitize passes containing a “barcode or QR code” simply by taking a picture of them. You’ll be able to upload things like gym membership cards, QR code public transport tickets, and parking passes. In addition, Google News will now be able to directly upload a received boarding pass or train ticket to Wallet. However, RCS (Rich Communication Services) must be enabled first. The newly discovered support for News is being rolled out on a limited basis as it will only work with “Vietnam Airlines and Renfe, Spain’s leading rail operator”. No word on whether the feature will be expanded to work with other travel companies.
Future plans
The work is not over yet, as Google plans to develop the Wallet app even further. The company says it is currently working with U.S. health insurance company Humana to “develop a digital version [the latter’s] insurance card”. Because it would contain sensitive information, this type of pass will require cardholders to verify before adding or using data. People can use biometrics, PIN or “other methods”. For UK users, there are plans to allow residents ” saving social security number” in the Wallet via HMRC app.
Later this year, the tech giant says it will introduce support for “corporate badges … giving employees convenient and secure access to buildings” at their workplace. Speaking of access, Google Wallet is expected to roll out to more countries “over the next few weeks,” although it’s not clear where exactly. We’ve reached out to Google for clarification on launch windows for other regions and future updates. This story will be updated if we get a response.
With all this talk about traveling, you may be thinking about planning your next vacation. Be sure to check out TechRadar guide to the best travel and weather apps for android if you need help.