NewApp Digest
search bot

Google Wallet

Recap: Pixel updates, Feature Drops, and new apps in 2024
AppWizard
December 26, 2024

Recap: Pixel updates, Feature Drops, and new apps in 2024

In 2024, Made by Google released multiple updates for the Pixel phone, introducing new features and enhancing existing functionalities across six updates. - January Feature Drop: Launched with the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, it included the Pixel Thermometer app for forehead temperature readings, Circle to Search, and the rebranding of Quick Share from Nearby Share. - March Feature Drop: Introduced with Android 14 QPR2, it featured an expandable Bluetooth Quick Settings Tile, a Material You volume slider, new casting options, and a "Hello?" button for the Call Screen feature. The Pixel Tablet received the Gboard Voice Toolbar. - June Feature Drop: Marked by the early launch of the Pixel 8a, it introduced Audio Emoji, Display Port Support for external screens, Gemini Nano technology, and camera improvements for various Pixel models. The Android 14 QPR3 update focused on minor tweaks. - Pixel 9 Series Launch: Debuted alongside Android 14, backporting features from the Android 15 Beta. Introduced three new applications: Pixel Screenshots, Pixel Studio, and Pixel Weather, along with Gemini Live and on-device Call Notes. - Android 15/October Drop: Introduced Android 15 with a Private Space option, Predictive Back functionality, a redesigned screenshot interface, underwater photography capabilities for the Pixel 9 series, and an enhanced Adaptive Vibration feature. - December Drop: Included Android 15 QPR1 with a Material You redesign for Settings, charging optimization, enhancements to the Pixel Screenshots app, a clear voice feature for the Pixel Recorder, broader rollout of contextual replies for Gemini, and Dual Screen Portrait Mode for foldable devices. Google extended Android OS updates for the Pixel 6 and 7 series.
Google Wallet rolling out adding passport IDs on Android
AppWizard
December 12, 2024

Google Wallet rolling out adding passport IDs on Android

Google Wallet is rolling out the ability to add a passport as a form of ID within its Android app, following a successful testing phase in October. This feature is now available for users, particularly benefiting those in states without a digital ID, and is accessible through the “Add to Wallet” option in the app. Users can add their passport by taking a picture of the information page, scanning the security chip inside the back cover, and recording a video of their face for identity verification. This feature is available with version 24.47.35 of Google Play services for Android devices running version 9 and above. At airport security, travelers can use their digital passport by scanning a QR code or tapping their phone near an NFC reader. The digital passport is not a government-issued ID and should not replace physical identification, especially for international travel. Users can remove their ID pass if their phone is lost by visiting myaccount.google.com.
Google Wallet adds digital ID support in yet another US state
AppWizard
December 8, 2024

Google Wallet adds digital ID support in yet another US state

New Mexico has allowed residents to store their driver’s licenses and state IDs in Google Wallet, becoming the sixth state to do so after California, Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, and Maryland. Physical identification is still necessary for law enforcement and age verification, but many businesses and TSA checkpoints are using the NM Verifier app for smartphone-based verification. Google Wallet will soon introduce digital passport IDs, enabling users to store a digital version of their U.S. passport. Users can create a digital U.S. passport ID by selecting the option in Google Wallet and following on-screen instructions. Travelers are advised to continue carrying physical IDs until digital IDs are more widely accepted and to check the TSA’s map for supported states and airports when planning domestic flights.
Android 15’s first major update has arrived
AppWizard
December 5, 2024

Android 15’s first major update has arrived

New features are being introduced to Android phones and Pixel devices, including: - Expressive Captions: Descriptive video captions that include annotations for non-verbal moments, such as [gasp] or [applause]. - Lookout App Enhancements: The Lookout app will now feature the Gemini 1.5 model for more detailed audio descriptions of photos and objects for users with low vision or blindness. - Gemini Assistant Expansions: New extensions for Gemini Assistant, including a Spotify extension for music playback and a Utilities extension for performing tasks like making calls and sending emails. - Pixel 9 Features: The call screening feature now includes contextual reply suggestions, and the Screenshots app allows users to save searches made with the Circle to Search feature and suggests search phrases based on saved screenshots. - Updates for Previous Pixel Models: Features like Identity Check for additional security are rolling out for Pixel 6 and newer devices. - Compatibility: The updates are not linked to Android 15 and are supported by various earlier Android versions.
Finals: What is Google's best four-color app icon?
AppWizard
November 30, 2024

Finals: What is Google’s best four-color app icon?

Google Maps and Chrome emerged victorious in the semifinals of a tournament to crown the best Google app icon. Google Maps defeated Google Photos after initially trailing, while Chrome maintained a lead to win against Google Wallet. Chrome's earlier victory over Gmail's 'M' was considered unexpected.
Google Wallet can now automatically fetch your train tickets from Gmail
AppWizard
September 30, 2024

Google Wallet can now automatically fetch your train tickets from Gmail

Google Wallet has introduced a feature that allows users to import confirmed train tickets directly from their Gmail accounts. This integration simplifies travel document management and will soon include live updates on train statuses. Upon receiving a confirmation email, train tickets are automatically added to Google Wallet, which also organizes travel-related documents. The Google Wallet app for Wear OS has been improved for better usability, allowing users to view unscannable passes and archive outdated ones. Additionally, Google Wallet's web experience has expanded to 28 new countries, bringing the total to 43, with plans for further expansion. The app is also now available in ten more countries, including Bermuda, Cambodia, and Morocco.
Google Wallet's new tool that turns anything into a digital pass rolls out widely
AppWizard
August 13, 2024

Google Wallet’s new tool that turns anything into a digital pass rolls out widely

Google Wallet has introduced a feature that allows users to create digital passes from any text-based document, known as the "Everything else" pass. This feature utilizes an AI system to capture key information from photographs of documents, enabling users to convert items like car insurance cards and gym memberships into digital formats. The AI identifies the type of pass and retains essential details while recognizing and classifying sensitive information as private. To add a digital pass, users can select the "Everything else" option in the app, take a photo of the card, and follow the prompts. This feature encourages users to leave physical cards at home, though they should verify acceptance of digital passes at specific venues.
Search