Google Wallet Adds Live Flight Tracking for Android

Google has rolled out an update to its Wallet app for Android devices, introducing live flight tracking through the platform's Live Updates feature. The enhancement, now available on devices running Android 16 or later, displays real-time flight progress directly on users' lock screens, notification shades, and always-on displays, aiming to streamline travel monitoring without needing to open additional apps.

The feature activates shortly before departure for flights added to Google Wallet, typically via Gmail integration. Users see estimated takeoff and arrival times, along with a progress bar featuring a plane icon that updates in real time as the flight progresses. A status bar icon, marked by the Google Wallet logo, appears at the top of the screen during active flights. Tapping the notification directs users to the boarding pass in the app, where they can access full details and the QR code for boarding. This builds on existing Wallet capabilities, such as automatic notifications for gate changes, boarding times, and check-in reminders pulled from email.

Google first announced plans for Live Updates in Wallet last October, targeting key travel scenarios like flights, train...