Google Wallet’s New AI Feature Transform Any Document into a Digital Pass

Digital passes are beneficial, but they don’t apply universally. However, with the assistance of AI, Google Wallet can now transform almost any document into a digital pass.

Currently being rolled out via the Google Wallet app, the “Everything else” option can convert any physical document, card, or similar item into a digital pass. This feature was announced in May and surfaced a couple of weeks ago, but it now appears to be reaching users. At least, it is for Pixel users. Notably, in the latest Wallet version, this “Everything else” option is only visible on Google Pixel devices, and not on those from Samsung.

Within the Google Wallet app, you can access this new feature by tapping the “Add to Wallet” button and scrolling down to “Everything else.” From there, Wallet will open a camera viewfinder, where it can automatically detect compatible information (like a barcode) and import it into the app. The image is analyzed using AI to determine the document type. You’ll be prompted to verify the information and also given the opportunity to edit it as needed. This is helpful, as in my testing, Wallet recognized my Sam’s Club card as a vehicle’s VIN number on a registration card.

Included types of documents (in the US) encompass:

•   Driver’s license
•   Health insurance
•   Passport
•   Business card
•   ID card
•   Car insurance
•   Residence permit
•   Library card
•   Student ID
•   Tax ID card
•   Voter ID card
•   Events & tickets
•   Vehicle registration
•   Loyalty card

You can modify a pass’ type during creation, and use an “other” category if it doesn’t fit into any of the preset options. The data you can enter varies depending on the category.

Google provides a disclaimer on the pass page indicating it was “created by the device owner.” More sensitive or official documents feature a more prominent disclaimer as well. The photo used to create the pass is also attached to it.

On a secondary page, there are details for the date added, the full number or details in plain text, and an option to use the pass “across Google” in places like Maps and Calendar. These passes, it appears, cannot be shared with other people.

Similar to a loyalty card, this appears in your Wallet and can be scanned by barcode scanners and more, if compatible.