Google Wallet adds Live Update for flight tracking

At a glance:

• Google Wallet for Android now shows Live Updates for flights on Android 16+.
• The feature displays arrival time, airline, and flight duration on the always-on display and lockscreen.
• Tapping the update opens the boarding pass page with a link to Google Flights.

Google Wallet for Android has rolled out a new Live Updates feature that keeps travelers informed about their flights directly from their device's status bar, always-on display, and lockscreen. The update, which was first teased in October 2025, activates shortly before takeoff and provides real-time information such as estimated arrival time, airline, and flight duration, all displayed alongside the Wallet logo.

When a boarding pass is added to Google Wallet, users already receive notifications for changes like boarding time updates and can quickly access their QR code at the gate. The new Live Update builds on this by offering persistent, glanceable flight status without needing to open the app. The progress bar uses a plane icon to visually represent the journey's progress, making it easy to track at a glance.

Tapping the Live Update notification takes users to the standard ticket page within Google Wallet. From there, a link at the bottom directs to Google Flights, which opens as a web search result. This integration ensures that users can seamlessly transition from tracking their flight to exploring additional travel options or information.

Google has indicated that this Live Updates functionality will eventually extend beyond flights to include train trips and other events, broadening its utility for travelers. The feature joins Google Maps navigation as another example of Google's efforts to provide real-time, contextual information directly on users' devices.

The rollout of Live Updates in Google Wallet is part of a broader set of enhancements to the app, which has recently added nearby notifications and flight check-in alerts. These updates aim to make Google Wallet a more central hub for managing travel documents and staying informed about journey details.

As Android 16+ devices become more widespread, features like Live Updates are likely to become a standard part of the mobile travel experience, offering users greater convenience and peace of mind when on the go.