Google Wallet Brings Travel Updates Directly to Android Home Screens

If you’re an Android user with a trip coming up, there’s a new feature worth checking out. Google just unveiled Live Updates, which could make your journey easier. As reported by 9to5Google, a new widget included in the Android 16 update provides real-time updates for your trip — whether you’re traveling by plane, train or car.

Google Wallet has offered similar functionality for some time. For instance, you can already load your boarding pass directly into Google Wallet, which will notify you of any changes to your boarding time and help streamline the travel experience.

Now, Google Wallet is integrating Live Updates into its framework, similar to Live Activities on iOS. Pertinent details appear directly on your lock screen, including departure and destination airports, a real-time flight progress bar, estimated arrival time and even step-by-step driving directions to major events — like concerts or sports games.

Google announced plans to implement a flight progress widget on Android lock screens at its I/O event last year. Live Updates will eventually work with Google Maps, Waymo, ride-sharing, and food-delivery apps.

To take Live Updates for a spin, you’ll need a trip already planned and a boarding pass ready. Once you add the pass to Google Wallet, the widget should appear as your trip approaches.

A Google spokesperson didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.