Google Wallet expands pass creation features, Google Messages adds Gemini button control
Top 3 Key Points:
- New Pass Creation: Google Wallet now lets you scan and create digital versions of various passes like event tickets and ID cards.
- AI-Powered Classification: The app uses AI to suggest the type of pass and its details, with options for privacy and customization.
- Gemini Button Control: Google Messages now allows users to hide the Gemini button in its settings.
Google has introduced a new feature in its Wallet app, announced at the I/O 2024 event, that makes it easier to create digital passes. This feature, called “Everything else,” replaces the older “Photo” option and lets users scan photos of various passes such as event tickets, gym memberships, or insurance cards. The app then creates a digital version that can be stored and accessed in Google Wallet.
The updated system uses artificial intelligence (AI) to identify the type of pass being added and automatically suggests relevant details. For passes containing sensitive information, like health records or government IDs, the app will mark them as private by default, meaning they won’t be synced across devices. Users will need to authenticate before accessing these private passes, though this classification can be changed later if desired.
When creating a pass, Google Wallet will allow users to edit key fields or add custom information. The app provides a list of pass types to choose from, including business cards, driver’s licenses, health insurance cards, and more. Once finalized, these digital passes will appear below your credit and debit cards in the app. Users can still access the original photo of the pass if needed.
The “Everything else” feature is currently rolling out across the U.S. If you’re still seeing the older “Photo” option, you can force the update by going to the Settings > App info page for Google Play services and selecting “Force stop.”
In another update, Google Messages has introduced a new setting that allows users to hide the Gemini button. This button, which appears above the “Start chat” floating action button, allows quick access to the Gemini conversation. Now, users can go to Google Messages Settings > Gemini in Messages > Show Gemini button to hide it. This feature is currently available in the beta version of the app but is expected to roll out to the stable version soon.
Google’s May 2025 Android updates bring exciting changes to improve how your phone works and how you message. These updates focus on making devices faster, safer, and more user-friendly.
One big change is to Android’s memory system. By increasing the memory page size from 4KB to 16KB on newer devices, apps can load quicker and use less power. This helps phones, especially those with modern chips, run smoothly and save battery life. Older devices will stick with the smaller page size to avoid issues.
The Google System Updates for May also add new features. Google Wallet now supports more card types and makes transit passes easier to use in apps like Google Maps. The Play Store now shows video previews of apps, helping you decide what to download. There are also fixes to improve battery life, storage, and network performance, making your phone more reliable.
For Google Messages, a new “delete for everyone” feature lets you remove sent messages from group chats within 15 minutes. This works for both RCS and SMS, so you can fix mistakes easily. Other messaging upgrades include better scam detection and the ability to send high-quality photos and videos. These updates show Google’s effort to make Android devices faster, more secure, and better for communication. Keep your phone updated to enjoy these improvements!
Google Maps is making driving more fun with a new feature for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Now, you can pick different car icons to show your vehicle on the map. Choose from options like a sleek sedan, a rugged SUV, or a cool arrow.
This small change adds a personal touch to your navigation and is rolling out to all users soon. Meanwhile, Ecobee’s Smart Doorbell Camera is getting a big upgrade with Google Home support. You can now see who’s at your door right from the Google Home app, view live video, and even talk to visitors.
If you have a Nest Hub, the doorbell feed pops up automatically when someone rings. This feature, already available for Ecobee’s thermostat, makes your smart home setup smoother and is available now for all users. On the AI front, Google’s Gemini app is getting smarter with the Gemini 2.5 Pro preview.
This update improves coding skills, helping developers create better apps and websites. It also handles video and text tasks more effectively. The preview is out for everyone to try, with Google planning to share more at its I/O 2025 event. These updates from Google and Ecobee bring small but meaningful improvements, making your car rides, home security, and digital tasks easier and more enjoyable.
Google is rolling out exciting updates to make browsing, searching, and downloading apps smoother and safer for Android users. These changes focus on improving Chrome’s security, redesigning the Google Search bar, and enhancing the Google Play Store’s download process.
Chrome’s Improved Security
Google Chrome now offers stronger protection with “Enhanced Safe Browsing” powered by Gemini Nano, an AI model that works directly on your device. This feature checks websites in real-time to spot phishing attempts and other online threats, keeping your data safe without relying on cloud servers. It’s a step up from the standard protection, giving users more peace of mind while browsing.
Redesigned Google Search Bar
The Google Search bar on Android is getting a fresh look. It’s now simpler and easier to use, with a modern design that fits better with your phone’s home screen. The updated widget lets you access Search, Lens, or voice commands quickly. The new layout is clean and user-friendly, making searches faster and more intuitive.
Better Play Store Downloads
The Google Play Store is improving how it shows app download progress. A new notification design displays a progress bar right in your notification panel, so you can track downloads without opening the app. This small but helpful change makes managing app installs more convenient.
These updates show Google’s focus on creating a safer, simpler, and more efficient experience for Android users. They’re rolling out gradually, so keep an eye out for them on your device!
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