- Apple Wallet now shows real-time flight updates on your iPhone Lock Screen with Live Activity, making travel tracking easier.
- Interactive airport maps in Apple Wallet help passengers quickly find gates, baggage claim, and connecting terminals.
- Checked bag tracking links luggage to your Apple Wallet boarding pass for real-time location updates, improving travel peace of mind.
Apple has introduced significant additions with the Apple Wallet iOS 26 update, focusing primarily on flight boarding passes. With the new update, travelers can now access real-time flight information, interactive airport maps, and updates for checked baggage. Notably, the United Airlines is the first major carrier to implement these features, while other airlines like Delta, American Airlines, and Qantas have announced plans to follow, though United is currently ahead.
Apple Wallet iOS 26 update brings major travel upgrades
Live flight updates with live activity
The first major feature is Live Activity. You can see your flight status right on your iPhone Lock Screen or on the Dynamic Island if your model supports it. This means you don’t have to open the airline app all the time for gate changes or delays.
It is not automatic though. You have to tap a button in Apple Wallet to turn it on. You can also share this info with family or friends so they can track your flight without knowing your seat or boarding group.
Airport maps for easier navigation
The boarding pass now also includes maps for airports. This is useful in big airports where finding your gate or baggage claim can be confusing. The map shows where you are and helps you find the right terminal or connection quickly. It is simple but really helpful if you are in a hurry.
Bag tracking via Apple’s Find My network
Another new feature uses Apple’s Find My network. If the airline supports it, your checked bag can be linked to your Apple Wallet boarding pass. You can see where your bag is, like tracking an AirTag. It is not perfect yet because the airline has to support it, but it adds some peace of mind.
United Airlines leads the way
According to Apple, United Airlines is the first major carrier to fully implement these new Apple Wallet capabilities. Other airlines, including Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and Qantas, have announced plans to support the features soon, but United is currently ahead in bringing them to passengers.
This early adoption underscores United’s continued focus on digital convenience and Apple’s growing partnership with major travel providers.
Overall, the iOS 26 updates make Apple Wallet more practical for travel. Live Activity, airport maps, and bag tracking are small but important features that make flying less stressful. It is a good step toward making digital boarding passes standard for all airlines.
