Google Wallet expands to store more cards, Google Home app adds search bar on Android
Key Points:
- Google Wallet adds a bulk card-saving feature for easier card management.
- Google Home app finally introduces a search bar for easier device navigation.
- Both updates are in the early stages, with more features likely to come.
Google is steadily enhancing its Wallet app, aiming to store even more of our physical documents digitally. Over the past year, Google Wallet has evolved, allowing users to save more than just payment cards. It now aims to store a variety of physical cards and documents we typically carry daily, like loyalty cards, customer cards, and more.
A new update to Google Wallet is in development, as uncovered in the latest app version’s source code. Soon, users will be able to save multiple cards at once using a convenient bulk mode. This new feature will allow users to take photos of all their cards and then select them at once to save digitally in Google Wallet. This process removes the need to add each card individually, making it more efficient for users who need to store several cards quickly.
Although this feature is still in its early stages, as noted by Android Authority, it could take some time before it’s fully released to all users.
Meanwhile, the Google Home app is also receiving a much-needed improvement. Despite being an essential tool for managing smart home devices, the app has never had a built-in search function. This has been a surprising gap in its functionality, considering that search bars are standard in most other Google apps.
Fortunately, this is about to change. Android Authority recently discovered a test version of a search bar in the “Devices” section of the Google Home app. Once rolled out, this feature will allow users to easily locate and manage their connected devices, streamlining the experience for smart home users.
Both the Google Wallet and Google Home updates are expected to launch soon, possibly as part of a broader set of new features in upcoming updates.
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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