Closing the Gap with Android

For years, Apple Wallet has served as a reliable digital repository for credit cards, boarding passes, and tickets. However, its utility was historically restricted to services that offered official integration. With the release of iOS 27, Apple has finally addressed this limitation, bringing its digital wallet up to parity with the functionality Google users have enjoyed for quite some time: the ability to create custom, unofficial passes.


The Convenience of Custom Passes

Many users have experienced the frustration of arriving at a store or cinema only to realize they have left their physical membership or loyalty cards at home. Previously, if a merchant didn't support Apple Wallet, you were simply out of luck. Now, iOS 27 allows you to digitize virtually any card, from gym memberships to store loyalty programs, ensuring you never miss out on rewards or entry access again.


How to Create Your Own Digital Passes

The process for digitizing your physical cards is straightforward:

  • Launch Apple Wallet by double-clicking the power button or via the App Library.
  • Tap the + icon located in the top right corner.
  • Select the Create a Pass option.

Using Visual Intelligence

For the fastest results, utilize the Visual Intelligence feature. You can either scan your physical card directly using your iPhone's camera or upload an existing photo from your gallery. Apple's AI will parse the information to generate a digital pass, which you can then refine by selecting Edit Pass before confirming the addition.


Manual Entry

If you prefer a manual approach, you can select a template—such as membership, event, or custom—and fill out the necessary details yourself. You can also digitize existing QR or barcodes by tapping Add Code and using your camera to scan them.


A Note on Practicality

While this feature is incredibly convenient for daily errands, it is important to exercise common sense. As noted in similar discussions regarding digital identification, this tool is best suited for loyalty programs, gym cards, and similar passes. When it comes to sensitive documents like passports or official government IDs, always carry your physical credentials. As the author notes: «This is not an Apple problem, it's a society and legal one.»

Until official digital verification becomes the global standard, having these custom passes in your phone is the most effective way to lighten the load in your pockets.