Google Wallet is bringing even more convenience to Wear OS users with its latest update.
Starting soon, Wear OS users will be able to store and use “access cards” like work badges, student IDs, and hotel keys directly from their Android wearable devices.
This update, which follows the addition of loyalty cards and passes in December 2023, is set to make life easier, especially when your hands are full.
New Features for Wear OS
The ability to store and access various types of passes is a major enhancement for Google Wallet on Wear OS. Users will now be able to keep essential items like hotel keys, campus IDs, and corporate badges on their wrist, providing quick and easy access without needing to dig through your pockets or bags.
This feature makes the most of your wearable device, offering a seamless experience whether youโre checking into a hotel, accessing your office, or showing your student ID.
While the Wallet app initially supported only credit or debit cards and transit passes, this new functionality expands its utility by allowing you to store a wider variety of items that you’d typically carry on your phone or in your wallet.
The new access cards, which include hotel keys, campus IDs, and corporate badges, will allow users to quickly tap to gain access to secured areas or services without needing a physical card or key.
Seamless Integration
The update comes with version 24.47 of Google Play Services, which is gradually rolling out to users. Once the update reaches your device, you’ll be able to see the new “access cards” in your Google Wallet. It’s important to note that the update might take a little time to reach all devices, so don’t worry if it’s not immediately available.
In addition to these new features, Google Wallet has already made significant strides in Wear OS functionality, including the addition of archived passes in the app. Now, users can easily access and manage archived passes at the bottom of their feed, keeping everything organized and available when needed.
Expanding Availability
This update also extends Google Wallet’s global reach, with the service now available in over 90 countries. Wallet.google.com, which was introduced in April 2024, allows users to manage their saved payment methods and passes online, offering a way to review transaction history and access other important details.
Countries such as the United States, Canada, UK, Australia, and many across Europe, Asia, and Latin America are included in the expanded availability. Whether you’re at home or traveling, this ensures that Google Wallet can be an essential part of your daily routine.
Whatโs Next?
This update to Google Wallet represents another step towards making wearables even more useful in our daily lives. With more passes and access cards now available on Wear OS, Google Wallet continues to evolve beyond just payment solutions, offering users a more integrated experience across their devices.
Stay tuned for further updates, as Google may continue to add new functionality to improve the Wallet app and extend its reach even further, making our mobile devices and wearables even more capable.
For now, enjoy the convenience of carrying essential cards on your wrist, whether you’re heading to a hotel, campus, or work.
