Google Wallet users in the USA are receiving an update that will add a new feature called Everything Else. What it essentially does is allow users to scan and store all sorts of documents in the cloud using AI. Users can scan all physical documents and store a digital copy of the same along with passes and tickets. It is expected to roll out to the rest of the world soon.
While most common document types are supported natively, Google Wallet may not support some lesser-known ones. However, you can still digitize and store them with a scan. Everything Else feature was announced at Google’s I/O event in May, initially seen in July, and shipped in record time by August.
Fun Fact: India offers a similar service where users can digitize and store all their important government IDs and documents in DigiLocker app. Maybe Google took a leaf from it.
Since no tech in 2024 can be developed and used without AI, Google Wallet app will use AI to detect data and text in the document or ID card to store it digitally. However, if AI deems the document as sensitive in nature, say SSN or driving license, it will be labeled as Private. What does that mean? Private documents are handled differently in that they are not synced to other devices (remain locally stored) and require verification to access.
AI will also detect all the relevant fields for different bits of information contained in the document or card. But you can always create more fields as needed. Once the document is scanned and added, you can categorize it as government, vehicle, insurance, etc.
Note that Google Wallet will save a digital copy of the original document in its database with the digitized version.
Everything Else feature could be a boon in today’s world where we have to store multiple types of IDs, documents, and passes for different purposes. You no longer have to carry physical copies, risk losing or damaging them, or scan or turn them into PDF files to share.
As shared by 9to5Google, The steps are simple:
- Open Google Wallet app.
- Tap on Add to Wallet option to open the menu.
- Accept the Consent Terms (should be one-time).
- Scan the document/card or select an image of the same from the Gallery.
- Preview the information and edit if required. As noted earlier, you can also create additional fields if needed.
- Tap on Add button to save it.
