Google announced on Thursday that it is introducing new Wallet updates for travelers and commuters. Most notably, Google Wallet will soon beta test the ability to create a Digital ID from your U.S. passport. The ID pass will work at select TSA checkpoints when traveling domestically.
Additionally, Google says it is working with partners to make digital IDs acceptable in more situations, such as car rentals, account recovery, and identity verification.
You can create an ID pass by selecting the “create an ID pass with your U.S. passport” option in the Google Wallet app. You will be asked to scan the security chip in the back of your passport. Then, you need to take a selfie video to verify your identity. Google says it only takes a few minutes for your ID pass to be ready.
Google emphasizes the importance of carrying your physical ID, noting that a digital ID is not a replacement for your actual ID.
Google announced that people in the U.S. can now add select prepaid commuter benefit cards to Google Wallet, starting with Edenred and HealthEquity. Plus, the company says it is working to bring mobile payments to more users around the world.
Google Wallet is also adding a new feature that will automatically import your transit tickets from your Gmail booking confirmations. Soon, you will be able to view live train status updates from your ticket in the app.
State-issued IDs and driver’s licenses from Iowa, New Mexico, and Ohio will join the list of states where users can save their ID in Wallet in the coming months.
Users will now receive notifications when a pass changes or receives a message. For example, you might get a notification if the assigned seat on your boarding pass changes or if your favorite coffee shop has a new daily special.
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