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Google Wallet: New Features for Travelers and Commuters

Google Wallet is introducing a range of new features that aim to make traveling and commuting easier and more convenient. The most notable addition is the beta testing of digital ID creation from U.S. passports, which will be accepted at select TSA checkpoints for domestic travel.

• Google is also working with partners to expand the acceptance of digital IDs for other situations such as car rentals, account recovery, and identity verification.
• This digital ID creation process involves scanning the security chip on the back of your passport and taking a selfie video for identity verification.
• While offering convenience, Google emphasizes that carrying the physical ID remains crucial as the digital ID is not a replacement.

Google Wallet: Digital ID for Travelers

The Digital ID feature in Google Wallet is a significant update, making it possible to use your smartphone as a secure form of identification for travel. It allows you to:

• Create an ID pass directly within the Google Wallet app.
• Utilize your digital ID at select TSA checkpoints.
• Potentially expand the use of digital IDs for other travel needs, such as car rentals, in the future.

How to Create a Digital ID

To create a Digital ID in Google Wallet using your U.S. passport, follow these steps:

• Open the Google Wallet app.
• Select the option to "create an ID pass with your U.S. passport."
• Scan the security chip on the back of your passport using your smartphone.
• Take a selfie video to verify your identity.
• Your ID pass will be ready within a few minutes.

Google Wallet: Expanding Transit and Payment Options

Beyond travel, Google Wallet is also improving its transit and payment functionalities:

• Adding support for select prepaid commuter benefit cards, starting with Edenred and HealthEquity.
• Working to enable mobile payments with transit and payment companies worldwide.
• Automating the import of transit tickets from Gmail booking confirmations.
• Providing live train status updates directly within the app.

Google Wallet: State-Issued ID Support

Google Wallet continues to expand its support for state-issued IDs and driver's licenses:

• Iowa, New Mexico, and Ohio will join the growing list of states where users can save their IDs in Wallet in the coming months.

Google Wallet: Enhanced Notifications

Google Wallet is introducing new notifications to keep users informed:

• Notifications will be sent when a pass changes or receives a message.
• This includes changes to boarding pass assignments, new daily specials at favorite coffee shops, and other relevant updates.