Apple Wallet is a system app that is pre-installed on many of the company's devices, including the iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, iPod Touch, and Mac computers. It's a super fast and convenient way to pay at retail stores and can be used for public transport and ticket purchases as well. Apple Wallet can also store loyalty cards and student IDs, and it works online as well, easing the checkout process.
Apple Wallet was originally known as Apple Passbook when first launched in 2012, storing boarding passes, tickets, and loyalty cards, presenting a barcode for scanning and, in some cases, automatically bringing that information up at the appropriate time and location. The Passbook app could also alert users of last-minute gate changes or flight delays at the airport. By 2015, along with the transition to the new Wallet name, Apple added the ability to keep credit and debit cards and introduced Apple Pay, which uses the data stored in Wallet to allow contactless payment.
Apple has updated its website with a full page dedicated to its Wallet app, detailing all of the features and benefits that come when owners of the iPhone and other Apple devices take a moment and add their cards, tickets, and passes. Set up is quick and easy, greatly reducing the number of cards and information needed when traveling, shopping, or simply going about a busy day. On an iPhone, cards, tickets, and passes can be scanned with the rear-facing camera to capture everything needed in seconds, and authorization is typically very easy using the bank's app. While it's still a good idea to retain the original card, ticket, or pass, in case the iPhone is lost or its battery dies, there's a real possibility that the plastic or paper version won't ever be used again.
Using Apple Wallet & The Benefits
Transit passes are super fast when Express Mode is enabled, allowing just a tap of the reader to ride on supported train and bus lines, without the need to go to a vending machine or kiosk. Airline passes can also be added to Apple Wallet and will appear at the gate with no need to unlock the iPhone. A double-click of the sleep button brings up the needed information to allow boarding. Tickets to a game or a movie can be kept in Apple Wallet, so they won't be lost or forgotten. In addition, student IDs can be stored, and even car keys can be accessed via an iPhone, although the number of supported vehicles is limited at the moment. When loyalty cards are kept in the Wallet app, it's easy to get the best discount and helps to make sure points are counted.
Apple finished the tour of Wallet by pointing out its focus on privacy and security, which is critical in an app such as this. When using an iPhone for payment, a unique transaction code is sent to merchants rather than the card number, keeping the user's financial data more secure than when using the card directly. Since it is contactless, requiring a tap instead of physically touching buttons and swiping cards, it helps prevent the spread of germs. With an iPhone and Apple Wallet, little else is needed to pay for transport, meals, and shopping throughout a busy day.
