iOS 27 will turn any QR code into a custom Wallet pass

Apple's iOS 27 will introduce a Create a Pass feature that lets iPhone users scan any QR code and generate custom digital passes for the Wallet app, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. The functionality addresses a long-standing limitation where users could only add passes from supported companies, expanding the kinds of QR-based passes Wallet can hold.

What does Create a Pass actually do?

The Create a Pass feature will scan any QR code and convert it into a personalised digital pass within the Wallet app. Users simply point their camera at a QR code — whether it's for a concert ticket, restaurant booking, or event entry — and the system generates a custom pass complete with relevant details.

This removes the current friction where QR codes must be screenshot or saved separately. Instead, they'll live alongside boarding passes, loyalty cards, and other digital credentials in a unified location. For UAE users accustomed to QR-based entry at venues like Dubai Opera, Global Village, or countless restaurants, this streamlines the entire process.

The feature builds on Apple Wallet's existing foundation while expanding beyond partnerships with major airlines, retailers, and event organisers. Previously, only companies with specific integrations could offer Wallet passes — this democratises the functionality.

How the scanning process works

According to Gurman's report, users will scan QR codes through the standard camera app or potentially a dedicated scanner within Wallet itself. The system then extracts relevant information — event details, dates, locations — and formats it into a proper Wallet pass.

The exact interface remains unclear, but Bloomberg's description suggests users will scan a QR code and then generate a Wallet pass around it. A generated pass would sit alongside existing Wallet items.

Wallet passes can support features such as lock screen surfacing and location-based reminders, which a saved screenshot of a QR code cannot.

Where Create a Pass fits in iOS 27

The Create a Pass feature represents part of Apple's broader focus on practical improvements in iOS 27. The update emphasises quality-of-life enhancements over flashy new features, addressing real user pain points rather than adding complexity.

iOS 27 is expected to follow Apple's standard release timeline — announcement at WWDC in June 2026, developer and public betas throughout the summer, and general availability in September alongside new iPhone hardware. Create a Pass would likely appear in early beta versions for testing.

The timing aligns with Apple's recent focus on expanding Wallet functionality. The company has steadily added new pass types, improved integration with third-party services, and enhanced security features. Create a Pass extends this trajectory by removing technical barriers for smaller venues and organisations.

What this means for Apple Wallet's future

Create a Pass signals Apple's intention to make Wallet the primary digital credential hub on iPhone. The feature moves beyond relying on partnerships with major companies to support any organisation or individual using QR codes for access control.

This democratisation could accelerate Wallet adoption in markets where local businesses haven't integrated with Apple's systems. In the UAE, where QR codes are ubiquitous for restaurant menus, event tickets, and venue entry, the feature lets users save QR-based items as native Wallet passes.

The move also positions Apple competitively against Google Pay and Samsung Wallet, which have offered similar QR-to-digital-pass functionality in certain regions. Apple's implementation would benefit from Wallet's existing security infrastructure and iOS integration depth.

For businesses that issue tickets or coupons via QR codes, Create a Pass would let those codes be saved as native Wallet passes without requiring a custom Apple Wallet integration.

iOS 27 availability

iOS 27 is expected to follow Apple's standard release cadence, with new iOS versions typically previewed at WWDC in June and released to the public in September. The Create a Pass feature should be available on all iPhone models that support iOS 27, though specific device compatibility hasn't been confirmed.

iOS updates are typically released globally on the same day, so the feature would be available to UAE users at launch alongside other regions. No additional setup or regional partnerships would be required, .

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Create a Pass feature in iOS 27?

Create a Pass lets iPhone users scan any QR code and generate a custom digital pass for the Wallet app. It's useful for event tickets, restaurant bookings, and venue entry passes that currently exist as screenshots or separate apps.

When will the Create a Pass feature be available?

The feature is expected as part of iOS 27, which typically launches in September following Apple's WWDC announcement in June. iOS 27 should arrive in September 2026 based on Apple's standard release schedule.

Will Create a Pass work with existing QR codes in the UAE?

Yes, the feature should work with any QR code from UAE venues, restaurants, or events. It doesn't require special integration from businesses — any QR code can potentially become a Wallet pass.

How is this different from taking a screenshot of QR codes?

Wallet passes offer location-based notifications, lock screen display at relevant times, Apple Watch integration, and automatic calendar syncing. Screenshots just store the image without smart functionality.

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