Apple Wallet and Google Wallet are digital tools that let users store payment cards, tickets, and other common passes on their smartphones. These apps are closely linked with Apple Pay and Google Pay, which handle the actual payments. The choice between the two is usually based on whether a user has an iPhone or an Android device. Both offer similar core features, such as storing credit and debit cards, loyalty cards, gift cards, and transportation passes, although availability can vary by location and the provider of the pass. Adding payment cards to either app is a simple process. In Apple Wallet, users tap the plus button and choose between a debit or credit card. In Google Wallet, users tap "Add to Wallet," select "Payment card," and follow prompts to verify with their bank or card provider. Both require support from the card issuer, and neither stores actual card details on their servers for security reasons. Support for other types of passes differs between the two apps. Apple Wallet typically requires items to officially support digital wallets, often showing an "Add to Apple Wallet" button in emails or apps. This ensures features like automatic updates for boarding passes on an Apple Watch. However, iOS 17 allows users to add custom passes for unsupported items. Google Wallet has been more flexible, offering both official "Add to Google Wallet" passes and the ability to import tickets and boarding passes from Gmail. It also allows users to digitize photos of various cards and passes, like parking or gym cards, though these do not receive live updates. Both apps provide smooth experiences for in-person payments. Apple Wallet requires users to unlock their iPhone and hold it near a contactless reader, while Google Wallet allows payments without pressing any buttons, using the default card. Apple Wallet lets users choose a card before paying, while Google Wallet requires opening the app to switch cards. Both support shortcuts, with Apple Wallet using the Action button on newer iPhones and Google Wallet supporting a double-press of the power button on certain Pixel phones. Apple Wallet and Google Wallet also support payments through smartwatches. On Apple Watch, users double-click the side button to pay by holding the watch near a reader. On Wear OS watches, users open Google Wallet and hold the watch near the reader. Both apps can make transit payments without additional authentication on supported public transport. Apple Wallet’s Express Mode allows eligible cards to be used without unlocking the phone, even after the battery runs out for up to five hours on supported iPhones. Google Wallet’s Express Pay requires the phone screen to be on. Digital ID support varies by region. Apple Wallet allows users to add a driver’s license or state ID from participating U.S. states and territories, but a physical ID is still needed where the digital version isn’t accepted. Google Wallet can create an ID pass from a passport issued by certain countries, but it is not a replacement for the physical document and won’t be universally accepted. Digital ID support depends on local governments and is not guaranteed in mainstream wallet apps. In the UK, digital driver’s licenses are being developed but will only be available through a separate app called GOV.UK Wallet. Under the hood, the two apps process payments differently. Apple does not store transaction history or real card details on its servers, while Google collects purchase details and keeps real card numbers on its servers. Both are secure, but Apple Wallet is generally seen as more privacy-focused. These differences are minor and unlikely to influence a user’s choice of phone ecosystem unless they are considering Samsung Wallet on Android.