PKPASS File Extension

What is PKPASS file?

Files with the PKPASS extension contain different types of data compressed with ZIP compression method, which include daily used tickets, passes, coupons or member cards, and also student IDs, loyalty cards and credit or debit cards – cooperating with Apple Pay.

They are displayed an a mobile device as a codes like: Aztec, PDF417, QR or Code 128 1D.

Additional information

This format was developed in the year 2012, originally by Apple, for purpose of the Apple Passbook app, currently – Apple Wallet. It can be read also with other programs on different platforms.

PKPASS files can be distributed in different ways – within apps, web sites, social platforms, via SMS, MMS, email, and QR codes or bar codes. The file comprises of a template, private key and a package of the proper data.

Programs which support PKPASS file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 2 operating systems that support PKPASS files. Files with PKPASS suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

Updated: 07/12/2019

How to open file with PKPASS extension?

Problems with accessing PKPASS may be due to various reasons. Fortunately, most common problems with PKPASS files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Get the Apple Passbook

Problems with opening and working with PKPASS files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with PKPASS files being present on your machine. The most obvious solution is to download and install Apple Passbook or one to the listed programs: PassWallet. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. The safest method of downloading Apple Passbook installed is by going to developer’s website (Apple, Inc.) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Update Apple Passbook to the latest version

If the problems with opening PKPASS files still occur even after installing Apple Passbook, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Apple Passbook is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. This can be one of the causes why PKPASS files are not compatible with Apple Passbook. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using Apple Passbook.

Step 3. Set the default application to open PKPASS files to Apple Passbook

If you have the latest version of Apple Passbook installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage PKPASS on your device. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Clicking the PKPASS with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where Apple Passbook is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open PKPASS files and clicking OK.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with PKPASS extension, select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with PKPASS extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Ensure that the PKPASS file is complete and free of errors

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the PKPASS file in question. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. The PKPASS may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the PKPASS file hinders attempts to open it. Scan the PKPASS file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the PKPASS file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Verify that the PKPASS file’s structure is intact

If the PKPASS file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. It could happen the the download process of file with PKPASS extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Check if the user that you are logged as has administrative privileges.

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the Passbook Pass Format file.

4. Check whether your system can handle Apple Passbook

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support PKPASS files. Close all running programs and try opening the PKPASS file.

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Passbook Pass Format files. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle PKPASS files.

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