iOS 27 Lets You Add Physical Barcode Cards to Apple Wallet

I still have a library card that lives in a drawer because I only remember it when I'm standing at the desk. iOS 27 has a practical fix for that sort of thing: Apple Wallet can create a pass from a physical membership or loyalty card with a barcode or QR code. The same idea works with a photo or screenshot of a digital pass that never offered an Add to Wallet button.

How to add one

Apple's guide gives two routes. On a supported iPhone, take a clear photo or screenshot that includes the code, tap Add to Wallet, and follow the prompts. You can also open Wallet → Add Card → Create a Pass → Create Pass Manually, choose a template, and fill in the fields yourself.

That is useful for a gym membership, a library card, or a local shop's loyalty card. I would test the new pass at the counter before leaving the plastic card at home. A worn barcode, a dim screen, or an older scanner can still cause trouble, and some businesses may insist on the original card for identification.

The catch: device support

The photo-and-screenshot route uses Apple Intelligence. Apple says it requires iOS 27 on an Apple Intelligence-capable device: iPhone 15 Pro or 15 Pro Max, or an iPhone 16 model or later. Availability also varies by language and region. A phone that can install iOS 27 does not automatically qualify for that specific shortcut.

A self-made pass is mainly a convenient way to present information and a code. It does not turn an ordinary card into a payment card, a secure NFC key, or a live pass that updates itself when the issuer changes details. For everyday barcode cards, though, having the code in Wallet is one less bit of plastic to hunt for.

Source: Apple Support

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