Google Wallet gets Digital Passports and Pixel phones get battery-saving features

Google Wallet can now store digital versions of your US passport! This can be used for domestic travel security checks at TSA checkpoints if your state doesn’t offer a digital ID yet.
Here’s how to add your passport to Google Wallet:
- Open the Google Wallet app on your Android phone (version 9 or later).
- Tap “Add to Wallet” and then “ID” followed by “ID Pass.”
- Follow the steps to scan your passport information page and the security chip inside the back cover.
- Record a short video of yourself for verification.
Important things to remember:
- This digital passport isn’t a replacement for your physical passport, so always carry both when traveling.
- It currently only works for domestic travel within the US.
- If you lose your phone, you can remove the digital passport from your Google account.
Pixel phones get new features to improve battery health!
The latest update lets you set a charging limit of 80% to slow down battery degradation. There’s also a hidden feature called “bypass charging” that might be even more helpful.
What is bypass charging?
With bypass charging, when your battery reaches 80%, your phone will continue to use power directly from the charger instead of the battery. This reduces wear and tear on the battery, especially while gaming or using demanding apps.
Is bypass charging available on all Pixel phones?
It’s not entirely clear yet. The 80% charging limit works on many Pixel models, but bypass charging has only been confirmed on the Pixel 8 Pro so far. It likely works on Pixel 8, 8a, and the Pixel 9 series too, but Google hasn’t officially confirmed this.
Pixel Screenshots get smarter!
The latest update for Pixel Screenshots on Pixel 9 phones integrates with Gboard. Now, when you take a screenshot that includes a movie, song, or product, Pixel Screenshots remembers that information.
How does this help?
For example, if you screenshot a song title and then open a music app, Gboard might autofill the song name for you. This feature is called “proactive recall.”
Other Pixel Screenshots updates:
- The image viewer now suggests more search terms based on your screenshots.
- The app automatically categorizes your screenshots (this might take some time).
- You can easily save a specific part of a screenshot with “Circle to Search.”
This update also brings new features to Gboard, including a sticker pack and the ability to browse Emoji Kitchen combinations.
Google to invite big fans to early Pixel 10 event in June

Google is getting ready to show off its brand-new Pixel 10 smartphone, and it wants its most loyal fans to be part of the excitement. The company is planning a special event for June, before the official launch. This event is especially for “superfans”—people who really love Pixel phones and always want to try the latest tech.
At this event, Google will give these fans a close look at the Pixel 10. They might get to see new features, learn about how the phone works, and even share their thoughts with Google. This is a chance for Google to hear from fans before the phone comes out for everyone. Superfans are often the first to know about new updates and features, and Google values their feedback.
By inviting superfans early, Google hopes to make the Pixel 10 launch even better. The company wants to learn what fans like and what could be improved. This way, they can make small changes before the big release. The event is a sign that Google cares about its users and wants them to feel special.
In short, if you are a big Pixel fan, keep an eye out for an invitation to this special June event. You could be one of the first to see the Pixel 10 up close and help shape its future!
Gemini app gets new ai video maker and live camera features and Pixel Weather maps update

Google’s Gemini app is getting exciting new updates. One big change is that you can now use a new AI tool called Veo 3. This tool helps you make videos just by typing what you want. It’s part of Gemini Ultra, which is a smarter version of the AI. With Veo 3, you can create short videos easily, even if you don’t know how to edit videos.
Another new feature is called Gemini Live with Camera. Now, you can use your phone’s camera to show things to Gemini, and it will help you right away. For example, if you point your camera at a plant, Gemini can tell you what kind it is. This works on your phone’s screen, and it’s made to be easy for anyone to use.
Google is also making the weather app on Pixel phones better. Now, you can see weather maps more clearly. The app will show you detailed maps with rain, clouds, and more. This helps you plan your day better by knowing what the weather will be like.
All these updates make using Google’s apps more fun and helpful. They show how Google is always working to make things easier and smarter for everyone.
Google Wallet now fixes pin problem on wear os smartwatches

Google has fixed an issue with Google Wallet on Wear OS smartwatches that was making it hard for users to use their PIN code. Before this fix, some users found that when they tried to use Google Wallet to pay with their watch, they were not able to enter their PIN. This made it difficult or even impossible to use the payment feature.
The problem seemed to happen mostly after users updated their smartwatch software or after restarting their device. Some people also noticed it when they locked their watch and then tried to unlock it to make a payment. The issue was frustrating because users could not complete transactions without the correct PIN.
Google has now released an update for Google Wallet on Wear OS. This update solves the problem, so users can once again enter their PIN and use their watch to pay for things. The company did not say if this fix would come as a separate update or as part of a bigger system update. But users should check for updates on their smartwatch to make sure they have the latest version of Google Wallet.
This is good news for people who use their smartwatches to pay for things every day. Now, they can use their watch to pay without worrying about PIN problems. The update should make using Google Wallet on Wear OS watches easier and more reliable. If you are still having trouble, make sure your watch is updated and try restarting it.
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