Google's Pay app's Passes API has been updated to allow users to store and display digital cards on Android that show their COVID-19 test results and vaccination details. The API is now available to healthcare agencies, government agencies, and organizations that have been authorized by public health authorities for COVID vaccinations. Their developers now have the ability to create digital COVID vaccine or test cards that can be stored on their devices.9to5Google points out that Passes is a Google Pay app used to store non-payment card information such as retailer membership cards. Users don't need to download the Pay app to store COVID digital cards that were created with the Passes API. They will be able access the digital card via a shortcut from their home screen once they have it. Their devices must be running Android 5 or higher.Google claims it does not retain any COVID-19 vaccine or test information in order to alleviate users' privacy concerns. Google also stated that it does not share card data with third-party services and doesn't use this information to target ads. The card can be shown to anyone, but users will need to set up a lock screen before they can store it. Passes API Update is currently only available in the US, but the tech giant says it will be expanding to other countries.
