News
Google Wallet users can now save and use hotel keys
Google Wallet upgraded with the ability to store hotel keys. Continuing its commitment to end the need for a physical wallet, Google is bringing hotel keys support to Android’s Wallet application for hotels and guestrooms.
Android’s Google Wallet app is now capable of storing (via 9To5Google) virtual keys for digital locks. It will allow users to lock or unlock the doors of hotel rooms as well as supported elevators, guest rooms, gyms, and pools.
How to Add a hotel key
- Open the hotel’s website, app, or email.
- If needed, sign in to the hotel’s website.
- Tap Add to Google Wallet.
- Tip: You can typically find this button on the reservation confirmation page from the hotel’s website, app, or email. If not found, the hotel may not support this feature. For more details, contact the hotel.
- Sign in to your Google Account that is associated with your Google Wallet.
- Tap Add and then View in Wallet.
You can now view your hotel key and reservation details provided by the hotel in Google Wallet.
How to Use a hotel key
Important: You must check in and be assigned to a room to activate your hotel key. To check in, use the hotel’s app, kiosk, or reception desk.
- Wake and unlock your phone.
- Tip: Some hotels allow you to use your hotel key without unlocking your phone. Learn how to manage your device unlock settings.
- Hold the back of your phone near the door handle.
Your hotel key in Google Wallet can safely and securely be used to access your room and key card-protected common areas like gyms, pools, and elevators throughout the duration of your stay.
Key Points:
- WhatsApp is getting customizable themes for chat bubbles and wallpapers.
- Google Meet is bringing AI-powered meeting note-taking to smartphones.
- These new features aim to improve user experience and productivity.
WhatsApp Themes: A Personal Touch
Ever wanted to give your WhatsApp chats a unique look? Well, you might be in luck soon! WhatsApp is working on a feature that lets you choose your preferred colors and wallpapers for your chat bubbles. This means you can customize your app to match your style or mood.
Google Meet Gets Smarter with AI
Google Meet is also getting a major upgrade. The app is introducing an AI-powered feature that automatically summarizes your meetings and creates detailed notes. This will save you time and help you remember important points from your discussions. While this feature is currently available on desktops, it’s expected to make its way to smartphones soon.
The Future of Messaging and Collaboration
These new features are just a glimpse into the future of messaging and collaboration. As technology continues to advance, we can expect even more innovative ways to communicate and work together.
Key points:
- Android 15 for Pixel devices was pushed back to October 15.
- Gemini Live, Google’s AI assistant, is now available for free Android users.
- Pixel 6 and later devices will get Android 15, but Pixel 6/6 Pro won’t get future updates.
Android 15 Delayed
Google’s latest Android update, Android 15, is taking a bit longer to reach Pixel phones. While it was released for developers in September, it won’t be available for Pixel users until October 15th. This delay is likely due to Google wanting to make sure the update is as bug-free as possible.
Gemini Live Goes Free
In other Google news, Gemini Live, the company’s AI assistant, is now free for Android users. This means you can use Gemini to help you with tasks like writing emails, summarizing articles, or even translating languages.
Pixel 6 and Later
The Pixel 6 and later devices will be the first to get Android 15. However, this will also be the last guaranteed update for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. While they will continue to receive security updates, they won’t get any new features after Android 15.
Key Points:
- Google Calendar is coming to the New Tab Page in Chrome for Workspace users.
- Circle to Search is expanding to more Android devices, including Xiaomi 14T.
- Chrome is getting other new features for enterprise users.
Google Calendar on Chrome’s New Tab Page:
Google Workspace users will soon see their Google Calendar on the New Tab Page in Chrome. This will make it easier to see upcoming meetings and join them quickly. You’ll also see your daily schedule below the calendar.
Circle to Search Expanding to More Devices:
Circle to Search, a feature that lets you search by drawing circles around objects in your photos, is expanding to more Android devices. This feature was previously limited to Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel devices, but now it’s coming to Tecno and Xiaomi devices.
Other Chrome Updates:
Chrome is also getting other new features for enterprise users, such as a new sign-in flow that provides more transparency and a feature that lets admins set site shortcuts.
These updates are all designed to make it easier for businesses to use Chrome and Google Workspace.
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