Google's digital wallet service, Google Wallet, announces the launch of a swift access feature, introducing a 'double-tap' shortcut on Pixel devices.
Google Wallet, the digital wallet service by Google, has introduced a new feature that enhances the user experience for Android 16 users on Pixel devices. The new addition is a shortcut overlay that appears when using the customizable double-tap power button gesture.
The overlay showcases a card carousel with a blurred background and an NFC "Hold to reader" animation. This allows users to quickly select and pay with any card without fully opening the Google Wallet app. A shortcut at the bottom also allows users to open the full app if needed.
The rollout of this feature is currently early and limited in scope. It has been confirmed to appear on at least one Pixel 9 Pro Fold running Android 16 with specific Google Wallet and Play Services beta versions (around 25.31). Other similar devices like the Pixel 9 Pro XL have not yet received it, suggesting a gradual staged rollout rather than a wide release.
This update aims to mimic the convenience of Apple Wallet’s quick access interface, allowing users to pay quickly with selected cards and then return to their prior activity seamlessly. Google Wallet has also been introducing additional bank support throughout 2024 and has recently supported real-time train status alerts, limited to India and Canada initially.
Moreover, users can now add Loyalty and Gift card passes via the homepage on computers. The Google Wallet community has also been actively discussing this new app overlay on the Google Wallet subreddit.
Sources:
- 9to5Google
- Google Wallet subreddit
- Users can now find a new enhancement on their Pixel devices, as Google Wallet has added a smartphone shortcut overlay for Android 16 users, allowing them to quickly select and pay with any card from a card carousel, even without opening the Google Wallet app.
- The technology landscape is expanding, with Google Wallet embracing smartphones and gadgets by unveiling an NFC-enabled, double-tap power button shortcut overlay reminiscent of Apple Wallet's quick access interface, offering users the convenience of swift payments and seamless return to their previous activities.
