If there’s one thing Google likes to do almost as much as constantly launching new messaging apps, it’s killing an app or service and then, after a while, launching another thing of the same name. So, with that in mind, say hello to the new Google Wallet. This will be available for Android and Wear OS devices in the coming weeks in “over 40 countries”.
As you might expect, you can use it to store bank cards to tap to pay, but also any other type of card you might have, including loyalty ones. But not only: vaccination certificates? Check! And at a later stage, Wallet will also support digital IDs, where you can identify yourself without even giving your phone to anyone, through the magic of NFC. This of course depends on state support, so the launch may take some time, even in the US, where it is starting.
Office and hotel digital keys will also be supported, and developers can turn almost any item into a digital pass. Google has created some templates that are the easiest to use, for boarding passes, event tickets and the like, but there’s also a generic template for more unique things.
To add a boarding pass or Covid vaccine card, you can simply take a screenshot and you will see an option to add it directly to your Google Wallet. Once added, you will receive notifications of delays and gate changes. The same goes for concert tickets – you will receive a notification reminding you of the concert.
And if you search for directions in Maps to visit a friend, your transit card balance (assuming it has been added to Wallet) will be shown next to the route. If you are short of credit / rate, you can tap and add more.
Because Google sometimes likes to get confused with its apps and services, Google Pay will still be around in the US, India, and Singapore, focusing on sending and receiving payments from friends, but you’ll pay for it. what’s this with Google Wallet. See? We told you he was confused.
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