New Delhi: Google has introduced a significant upgrade to its digital payments and pass management application, Google Wallet, with real-time flight tracking directly on Android lock screens. The new Live Updates feature will enable users to see important flight information, such as departure time and duration, as well as an estimated arrival time, without unlocking their devices. The update can now be used with Android 16 and above devices.
The feature will be initially teased by Google in late 2025, but it is designed to make travelling simpler, allowing one not to have to toggle between apps or check emails to get informed. According to reports from Google-focused outlets, the rollout builds on existing boarding pass integration and Gmail syncing, making flight tracking more seamless and accessible than ever.
How Google Wallet live updates work
Living Updates is automatically enabled when a boarding pass is saved in Google Wallet and the flight is about to take off. The feature shows important details like takeoff time, flight duration, approximate arrival, and airline details directly on the lock screen or always-on display.
A progress bar with a plane icon visually tracks the journey in real time. The boarding QR code can also be easily accessed by the user and scanned at the gate instead of opening the app manually. Tapping the notification redirects to the ticket page, which includes a link to flight details via Google Flights.
Real-time alerts for delays, gate changes and more
The Live Updates feature keeps the travellers updated with real-time information on gate changes, delays, and boarding information. These notifications are automatic in nature since they show up automatically; hence, they are more convenient in moments when time is of the essence when travelling.
The system is based on the previous notification system of Wallet but adds the presence of persistent and glanceable updates. According to Android news outlets, the feature comes into play just before takeoff and will be visible all through the trip.
Requirements and availability
Live flight updates require users to use a device with Android 16 or later and the most recent update of Google Wallet (via the Play Store). Upon addition of a boarding pass, no further setup is needed.
Google is yet to affirm whether this will be extended to the older versions of Android or to iOS. Nevertheless, the company suggested that soon such live updates would be applicable to train travels and other event-based tickets, and the usage of the app for flights would be extended.
This update will put Google Wallet in the same category as Google Maps, providing live updates as a navigation tool already. Collectively, these aspects are indicative of Google driving towards real-time, glanceable information throughout its ecosystem.
As the travel season nears, this feature will definitely enhance user experience, as they will have all the necessary flight information at their fingertips at the point where it is most required.