Google Wallet has made huge strides in the last year or so, adding support for different types of passes, driving license support in more US states, and even the ability to add custom passes to your Wallet by just snapping a picture. Google’s next upgrade could make Wallet smarter by scanning your gallery for passes and adding them automatically.
Right now, you can add a custom pass to Google Wallet using the share button from the Gallery app. Or directly through the Wallet app using the Add to Wallet option. Easy enough, but Google wants to make the Wallet experience even better by automatically importing passes from your gallery. Wallet already does this for passes that land in your Gmail inbox.
Android Authority managed to enable the “Automatically import passes” option in the latest Google Wallet (v25.32.792031365) release. There will be two ways you can enable the feature: while manually adding a pass using the “Everything else” option or through the Google Wallet settings.
For the feature to work, you must grant it access to all photos on your device. The app will then automatically scan for boarding passes and IDs in the background. You’ll receive a notification when a pass is found, letting you review and add it to Wallet with a tap. Being able to review passes before they are imported adds a layer of control, ensuring only the ones you want make it into your Wallet.
The Android Authority team managed to get the feature working, suggesting it is almost ready for release. Google might just make this Wallet enhancement official with the September Pixel Drop.
Google Wallet keeps getting better
If you heavily rely on Google Wallet to keep your boarding passes, tickets, and membership card details organized, the ability to automatically import them into the app should make your life easier.
Just last week, Google started testing a new experience on Wallet online by letting you see exchange rates and fees from remittance providers. While not something radically new, the integration makes life easier, providing you with relevant information right inside a tool that you already use.
