Google Chrome Enables Autofill of Loyalty Card Numbers and Travel Details

Google is adding four new features to the autofill function of its Chrome browser that it said will streamline checkout for gifts or travel during the holiday season.

These improvements will reduce the number of clicks required when filling out similar forms across different websites, the company said in a Friday (Dec. 5) blog post.

One upgrade provides the browser with a deeper connection with the Google account of signed-in users. This enables Chrome to securely pull up the user’s name, email address, and home and work addresses when needed to complete forms.

“This smooth handoff removes all the hassle from your first interaction with any new website,” Ali Sarraf, senior product manager, Chrome, said in the post. “It’s quick and accurate, and is rolling out on desktop, Android and iOS today.”

Another improvement allows Chrome to integrate with Google Wallet and enable autofill of loyalty card numbers, travel details and vehicle information. This feature is designed to help users earn rewards without having to find their card, and to fill in details when booking a flight, renting a car or getting a quote on auto insurance.

“To access these new, smart filling features, enable enhanced autofill in your Chrome settings,” Sarraf said in the post.

A third upgrade to the browser introduces a two-line display for autofill solutions in Chrome on Android. This expanded view solves the problem of autofill suggestions appearing too condensed and makes it easier for users to choose the correct option, per the post.

The fourth improvement to Chrome provides more accurate addresses in certain parts of the world, “such as ‘between streets’ descriptions in Mexico, and upcoming support for phonetic names in Japan,” Sarraf said in the post.

“This has led to a better form-filling experience in many regions, making Chrome a reliable helper for everyone, everywhere,” Sarraf said.

In an earlier update to Chrome’s autofill, Google said in November that the browser can now fill in a user’s passport, driver’s license, vehicle license plate and vehicle identification number (VIN).

This capability expanded upon the addresses, passwords and payment information the browser could already fill in.

“We’ve designed enhanced autofill to be private and secure,” Nico Jersch, senior product manager, Chrome at Google, wrote in a Nov. 3 blog post.