What you need to know
- Google Wallet is reportedly working on an update that reworks its home screen to show a user's four "favorite" passes or cards.
- The update would also add a "view more" button on the home screen, which would expand and show additional items in a grid-style.
- Previous Wallet updates have honed in on functionality and ease of use, as Google recently rolled out its "context-aware" patch for the app.
Google is reportedly working on an update for its Wallet app that could provide a more colorful and helpful experience for users.
AssembleDebug claims a hidden feature is in the works within Google Wallet's latest version that supposedly shows a rework for its card/pass display (via Android Authority). What the tipster suggests is that Google Wallet will bring an update to change its home screen from the otherwise outdated design we have currently. A "grid-style" UI is reportedly on the way, which will show four of a user's "favorite" cards or passes.
This term "favorites" is what's important here. AssembleDebug says that users will have a chance to "favorite" or "star" passes/cards they'd like to remain on their home screen. It should give users ease of use in the long run. However, the post adds that Google Wallet will supposedly choose your four favorites right off the bat.
Users can, of course, go through and decide for themselves which are their true favorites. The passes and cards are quite colorful, taking on whatever the primary hue is for the digital item, as well as rounded corners, which has become common across Android's aesthetic.
On the other side, the tipster spotted a "View More" button. Google's early code reads, "Tap View more to manage what's on home, search your wallet, and see all your payment methods, passes, and activity." There's no clear indication as to when this Wallet rework could arrive for users.
Making it easy
Google Wallet's been trying to refine its experience, as, since it's digital, users don't want to fumble around with it. An update around the holidays brought a feature that pushes Wallet to produce the appropriate pass or card based on your location. If you've got a train pass and you've arrived at the station, Wallet would bring it up for you. If you're at a grocery store, you can expect to see your debit or credit card. This "context-aware" feature was something Google teased during I/O last year.
On a related note, Google's also working on providing mobile users with their entire purchase history in Wallet. This isn't entirely new, as Wallet's web version does this. It's just Android that's feeling left out. This purchase history would display your card's activity across every device that has access to it.
Android Central's Take
I'm glad to see Google move in this direction for Wallet. Not only is it colorful, which is a plus on its own, but it's functional. Right now, Google Wallet feels a little stale and barebones. Sure, there's card present at the top, but I hardly ever look at anything beneath it. I can get my coupon information in other ways. This feature, should it roll out as rumors say it may, might make Wallet feel a little more appealing to use. Plus, it'll be fast to open it, tap a card or pass, and get moving.
