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Google Wallet was launched in 2022 as a new and improved version of the previously known Google Pay feature. Now, Google Wallet has received some more great updates, and Android users will now be able to keep all their essentials, such as their payment cards, loyalty cards, concert tickets, and more, on their phone much more easily.
What is Google Wallet?
Google Wallet was formerly known as Google Pay and Google Pay was originally known as Android Pay. It’s pretty much the same idea as Apple Pay for iPhone users, where you can keep your payment cards on your phone and tap them at checkout to pay for contactless transactions anywhere Google Pay is accepted. Many places support Apple Pay and Google Pay, but not every place you visit may accept them as a form of payment yet. Let’s see what you get with this new update.
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What are the new features of Google Wallet?
Photo, card or pass
A big change with Google Wallet is that you can take a photo of any card or card with a barcode or QR code and save it to your Google Wallet. This allows you to add more cards that weren’t previously supported with Google Wallet, such as a gym membership card. All you need to do to use it is open your Google Wallet, tap the appropriate card or pass and the barcode or QR code will appear on the screen. This feature is also already available on many Samsung phones.
A big change with Google Wallet is that you can take a photo, any card or pass with a barcode or QR code and save it to their Google Wallet. (Google)
Health insurance cards
Another feature that I think will be of great help to you is that Google has partnered with Humana to support health insurance cards with Google Wallet. Health insurance cards can be stored in your Google Wallet and qualify as a private card, meaning you can only view it with a PIN or a fingerprint, so others can’t access it as easily and steal your health insurance information.
Google has partnered with Humana to support health insurance cards with Google Wallet. (Google)
IDs
And another great addition is that some people can now add their IDs, including driver’s licenses and student IDs, to their Google Wallet so they don’t have to worry about carrying them with them at all times. Having your ID in your Google Wallet just became an acceptable way to prove your identity in the state of Maryland, and it will soon be legal in Arizona, Colorado, and Georgia as well. Google Wallet also allows people to store their company IDs and badges on their Android phones.
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Some people can now add their IDs, including driver’s licenses and student IDs, to their Google Wallet. (Google)
Digital car key
You can now also experience the freedom of a lighter keychain by securely storing your digital car keys in Google Wallet. All you have to do is hold your phone against the door handle of your car, and voila! It opens. Enjoy the convenience and security of digital car keys on the go.
At the time of publication, this feature is initially only being introduced for certain BMW models. However, digital car keys will be available for other car models in the near future.
You can now also experience the freedom of a lighter keychain by securely storing your digital car keys in Google Wallet. (Google)
Tickets
Bring everything you need to see a show or cheer on your favorite team. Google Wallet even shows your ticket on the day of the event, so you don’t miss the opening act or the first quarter. Plus, you can also save things like train tickets and boarding passes directly from your Messages app.
Google Wallet even shows your ticket on the day of the event, so you don’t miss the opening act or the first quarter. (Google)
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How secure is Google Wallet?
When you tap to pay with Google Wallet, encrypted payment codes are used to hide your real card number. Your payment details will remain confidential and will not be disclosed to the merchant, ensuring the security of your payment details. This extra layer of security also protects your sensitive information from prying eyes.
Kurt’s main takeaways
This is a major upgrade of Android phones and many of you will be grateful and use Google Wallet. I wouldn’t be surprised if we find ourselves in a mapless world in five to ten years. One thing is certain: we are witnessing a remarkable shift in the way we transact and manage our finances. The main things I’m concerned about are security and privacy, and as long as these big tech companies like Google address this to stay ahead of the crooks, we should be in good shape.
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If you could be confident that storing your payment information on your phone is safe, would you use Google Wallet or Apple Pay? Why or why not? Let us know by writing to us CyberGuy.com/Contact
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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning technology journalist who has a deep love for technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions to Fox News & FOX Business from mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Do you have a technical question? Get Kurt’s CyberGuy newsletter, share your vote, story idea or comment on CyberGuy.com.
