Google Wallet is adding a feature similar to one already available on Apple Wallet.
Your boarding pass is about to get a lot smarter, just like on the iPhone.
Google Wallet is enhancing its travel features using Android 16's Live Updates, putting flight and train information in an easy-to-access location.
Following a Material 3 redesign, Google Wallet will integrate Android 16's "Live Updates." Unveiled at I/O 2025 for Maps and Uber Eats, this feature extends to Wallet for flights, train travel, and events.
Instead of basic notifications, users can view a live progress bar for a flight or get immediate notifications regarding gate changes. Updates will be shown on the always-on display, lockscreen, or in the status bar.
Mentioned in the Google Play services version 25.41 notes, the rollout may take weeks or months.
Google is also releasing two additional updates. Android 12 users will receive notifications when a loyalty pass is imported from Gmail. Secondly, users can add credit or debit cards from their bank's app.
Google is working to match features that have been available elsewhere for some time. Apple Wallet's live integration has long been considered a model, updating boarding passes with real-time changes to gates or flights on the lock screen.
While functional, Google Wallet has not proactively provided information. Live Updates is intended to close the gap with Apple's "Live Activities," making Wallet a travel assistant.
The addition of live updates should reduce travel anxiety.
The bank card integration simplifies adding cards to a phone. This integrated feature aims to make the Android experience more consistent.
Android 16 is expected to be released next month.