Introduction
eGift cards are a popular way for businesses to offer flexible and convenient gifting options to their customers. While eGift cards themselves store the balance and transaction details in a gift card database, they can be represented digitally in Apple Wallet or Google Wallet using PassKit. PassKit allows you to create and manage digital wallet passes that act as a convenient interface for customers to access their eGift cards.
This article will guide you through the concept of integrating eGift cards with PassKit, explaining how wallet passes work as a digital representation of the eGift card and how they connect to your gift card database for balance checks and updates. We’ll also explore how eGift cards can be used both in-store (via barcode scanning or NFC tapping) and online, and provide examples of industries that can benefit from this integration.
Key Concepts
Wallet Passes as a Digital Representation
A wallet pass in Apple Wallet or Google Wallet is a digital representation of an eGift card.
It does not store the actual balance or funds. Instead, it acts as a convenient interface for customers to access their eGift card information.
The wallet pass can include a barcode for scanning or an NFC payload for tapping, enabling seamless in-store transactions.
Gift Card Database
The gift card database is the master system that stores the actual balance, transaction history, and other details.
When a wallet pass is scanned, tapped, or used online, the system queries the gift card database to retrieve the current balance and process the transaction.
PassKit’s Role
PassKit is a platform for creating, issuing, and managing digital wallet passes.
It does not handle eGift card balances or transactions directly. Instead, it provides a way to create a digital representation of the eGift card that can be added to a customer’s wallet.
POS Integration (In-Store)
The POS system is responsible for scanning the barcode or reading the NFC payload on the wallet pass, querying the gift card database, and processing transactions.
The wallet pass acts as a bridge between the customer and the POS system, enabling a seamless in-store experience.
Online Integration
For online purchases, the wallet pass serves as a visual tool to display the eGift card balance.
Customers can manually enter their eGift card number or use an encoded link on the back of the pass to apply the balance to their online purchase.
The online store queries the gift card database to apply the balance to the basket before checkout.
The Benefits of Wallet Passes for Gift Cards
1. Convenience and Speed
Instant Access: Customers can view their balance instantly by simply opening their wallet app.
No Friction: Checking a balance on a wallet pass takes seconds, unlike logging in to a website.
2. Improved User Experience
Seamless Integration: Wallet passes are designed to be user-friendly and integrate seamlessly with the customer’s device.
No App or Website Required: Customers don’t need to download a separate app or visit a website.
3. Real-Time Updates
Automatic Updates: Wallet passes can be updated in real-time via APIs.
No Manual Refreshing: Unlike a website, wallet passes update automatically in the background.
4. Enhanced Customer Trust and Transparency
Transparency: Displaying the balance directly on the pass builds trust with customers.
Transaction History: Show recent transactions on the back of the pass for added clarity.
5. Better In-Store Experience
Quick Checkout: Customers can quickly scan or tap their wallet pass to pay, with the balance visible on the pass.
Self-Service: Customers can check their balance and transaction history without contacting support.
6. Eco-Friendly and Modern
No Plastic Cards: Digital wallet passes reduce waste and align with sustainability goals.
Tech-Savvy Appeal: Appeals to customers who prefer using their smartphones for everything.
7. Brand Visibility
Top-of-Mind: Your brand is displayed every time customers open their wallet app.
Wide Reach: Wallet passes work on both Apple Wallet and Google Wallet.
8. Promotional Opportunities
Direct Marketing: Promote special offers or loyalty rewards directly on the pass.
Customizable Design: Tailor the pass to match your brand identity and campaigns.
Example Use Cases
Retail
Customers purchase eGift cards online or in-store.
A wallet pass is issued to the customer, which they can add to their Apple Wallet or Google Wallet.
At checkout, the wallet pass is scanned or tapped in-store, or the eGift card number is entered online to apply the balance.
Service Providers (e.g., Hairdressers, Salons)
Customers purchase eGift cards for services like haircuts or spa treatments.
A wallet pass is issued to the customer, which they can use to book and pay for services in-store.
The wallet pass is scanned or tapped at the POS to apply the balance.
Restaurants
Customers purchase eGift cards for dining experiences.
A wallet pass is issued to the customer, which they can use to pay for meals in-store.
The wallet pass is scanned or tapped at the POS to apply the balance.
Travel
Customers purchase eGift cards for flights, hotels, or travel packages.
A wallet pass is issued to the customer, which they can use to book and pay for travel services online or in-store.
The wallet pass is scanned or tapped at the POS or the eGift card number is entered online to apply the balance.
How It Works: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Set Up Your Gift Card Database
Choose a gift card database provider (e.g., Blackhawk Network) or build your own system to store balances and transaction details.
Ensure your gift card database can handle API requests for balance checks and updates.
Step 2: Create a Wallet Pass Template in PassKit
Use PassKit to create a template for your eGift card wallet pass.
Customize the design, including fields for the eGift card number, barcode, NFC payload, and any other relevant information.
Step 3: Issue Wallet Passes to Customers
When a customer purchases an eGift card, generate a unique eGift card number and store it in your gift card database.
Use PassKit’s API or no-code tools like Zapier to create a wallet pass for the customer.
Send the wallet pass to the customer via email, SMS, or a direct download link.
Step 4: Connect Wallet Passes to Your POS System (In-Store)
Ensure your POS system can scan the barcode or read the NFC payload on the wallet pass.
When a wallet pass is scanned or tapped, the POS system should query your gift card database to retrieve the current balance and process the transaction.
Update the eGift card balance in your gift card database after each transaction.
Step 5: Connect Wallet Passes to Your Online Store
For online purchases, customers can manually enter their eGift card number or use an encoded link on the back of the pass.
The online store queries the gift card database to apply the balance to the basket before checkout.
After the transaction, update the wallet pass with the new balance using PassKit’s API.
Step 6: Automate Pass Updates
If the eGift card balance changes, use PassKit’s API to update the wallet pass with the new balance.
Optionally, you can also display transaction history and the value of each transaction in a field on the back of the pass. This provides customers with a detailed record of their spending and remaining balance.
Customers will see the updated balance and transaction history in their wallet app without needing to take any action.
Considerations for Implementation
In-Store vs. Online Use
In-Store: The wallet pass is scanned or tapped at the POS, and the gift card database is queried to apply the balance.
Online: The wallet pass displays the balance, and customers manually enter their eGift card number or use an encoded link on the pass to visit the online store.
Barcode vs. NFC Payload
Barcode: A barcode on the wallet pass can be scanned by most POS systems, making it a versatile option for in-store use. For more details, refer to Enabling and Using Barcode Passes.
NFC Payload: An NFC payload allows customers to tap their phone on an NFC-enabled POS terminal, providing a faster and more modern experience. For more details, refer to Enabling and Using NFC Passes.
Error Proofing
Failed Scans or Taps: Ensure your POS system can handle failed scans or taps gracefully and prompt the cashier to manually enter the eGift card number.
Balance Checks: Always verify the Gift card balance in your gift card database before processing a transaction.
Pass Distribution
Automatic Delivery: Use PassKit’s automatic email feature to send wallet passes to customers after purchase.
Manual Distribution: For small-scale use cases, manually send wallet passes via email or SMS.
Pass Updates
Balance Updates: Use PassKit’s API to update wallet passes with the latest balance after each transaction.
Expiration Dates: If your eGift cards have expiration dates, ensure the wallet pass reflects this information.
Tips for Success
Choose the Right Tools
Use no-code tools like Zapier for low-volume use cases and PassKit’s API for high-volume or custom needs.
Test Thoroughly
Test your integration with multiple scenarios, including successful transactions, failed scans or taps, and balance updates.
Monitor Performance
Regularly check your system to ensure wallet passes are being issued and updated correctly.
Educate Customers
Provide clear instructions on how to add and use wallet passes in Apple Wallet or Google Wallet.
Common Misconceptions About eGift Cards
Misconception: Wallet Passes Store the eGift Card Balance
Reality: Wallet passes are a digital representation of the eGift card and do not store the actual balance. The balance is stored in your gift card database and checked by the POS system during transactions.
Misconception: Wallet Passes Are Linked to Apple Pay or Google Pay
Reality: Wallet passes are separate from Apple Pay or Google Pay. They are used for identification, access, or loyalty purposes and do not facilitate payments unless integrated with a payment provider.
Misconception: PassKit Handles eGift Card Transactions
Reality: PassKit is a platform for creating and managing wallet passes. It does not handle eGift card balances or transactions directly.
Conclusion
Integrating eGift cards with PassKit allows you to create a seamless digital experience for your customers, whether they’re shopping in-store (via barcode scanning or NFC tapping) or online. By using wallet passes as a digital representation of the eGift card, you can provide a convenient way for customers to access and use their eGift cards while keeping the actual balance and transaction processing in your gift card database.
If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to the PassKit support team. We’re here to help you succeed!