Google Wallet expands pass creation features, Google Messages adds Gemini button control
Top 3 Key Points:
- New Pass Creation: Google Wallet now lets you scan and create digital versions of various passes like event tickets and ID cards.
- AI-Powered Classification: The app uses AI to suggest the type of pass and its details, with options for privacy and customization.
- Gemini Button Control: Google Messages now allows users to hide the Gemini button in its settings.
Google has introduced a new feature in its Wallet app, announced at the I/O 2024 event, that makes it easier to create digital passes. This feature, called “Everything else,” replaces the older “Photo” option and lets users scan photos of various passes such as event tickets, gym memberships, or insurance cards. The app then creates a digital version that can be stored and accessed in Google Wallet.
The updated system uses artificial intelligence (AI) to identify the type of pass being added and automatically suggests relevant details. For passes containing sensitive information, like health records or government IDs, the app will mark them as private by default, meaning they won’t be synced across devices. Users will need to authenticate before accessing these private passes, though this classification can be changed later if desired.
When creating a pass, Google Wallet will allow users to edit key fields or add custom information. The app provides a list of pass types to choose from, including business cards, driver’s licenses, health insurance cards, and more. Once finalized, these digital passes will appear below your credit and debit cards in the app. Users can still access the original photo of the pass if needed.
The “Everything else” feature is currently rolling out across the U.S. If you’re still seeing the older “Photo” option, you can force the update by going to the Settings > App info page for Google Play services and selecting “Force stop.”
In another update, Google Messages has introduced a new setting that allows users to hide the Gemini button. This button, which appears above the “Start chat” floating action button, allows quick access to the Gemini conversation. Now, users can go to Google Messages Settings > Gemini in Messages > Show Gemini button to hide it. This feature is currently available in the beta version of the app but is expected to roll out to the stable version soon.