What is Apple Wallet?

What is Apple Wallet?

Apple Wallet (formerly known as Passbook) is a pre-installed app on all iPhones and iPods with iOS 6.0 or later. The app allows users to store and manage items typically kept in a physical wallet, like credit and debit cards, boarding passes, movie tickets, retail coupons, and loyalty cards.

While initially launched as a way to store and manage mobile passes, Apple Wallet now supports mobile payments through Apple Pay, a mobile payment and digital wallet service by Apple.

Features of Apple Wallet

1. Digital Cards and Passes

Apple Wallet allows users to add and manage various digital cards and passes, including:

• Payment Cards: Users can add their credit, debit, or prepaid cards from participating banks and card issuers to Apple Wallet, enabling contactless payments via Apple Pay.

• Boarding Passes and Event Tickets: Airlines, movie theaters, and event venues that support Apple Wallet can issue digital passes that users can save and manage in their Wallet. These passes display relevant details like seat numbers, departure times, and more.

• Loyalty Cards and Coupons: Many retailers and restaurants provide digital loyalty cards and coupons that users can store in Apple Wallet. These can be presented at checkout to earn points or discounts.

2. Apple Pay

With the introduction of Apple Pay, Apple Wallet also became a tool for making secure, contactless payments. Users can pay with their iPhone or Apple Watch at stores that accept contactless payments, or make purchases in apps and on the web.

3. Privacy and Security

Apple Wallet has robust privacy and security features. When a credit or debit card is used with Apple Pay, the actual card numbers aren't stored on the device or on Apple servers. Instead, a unique Device Account Number is assigned, encrypted, and securely stored in the Secure Element, a specialized chip in the device.

Conclusion

Apple Wallet is a powerful tool that simplifies the management of various cards and passes while offering a secure and private way to make payments. Whether you're paying for groceries, boarding a flight, or redeeming a coupon, Apple Wallet can make these transactions smoother and more convenient.