Passbook (called “Wallet” starting in iOS 9) is an built-in iOS application that provides a way for users to store and access “passes”. Consider a pass as a digital token for something, such as event tickets, membership cards, discount coupons, boarding passes, etc. Passes can be added to passbook by mail, messages, an app, etc.

A pass has many benefits for the user. For example, say a user has added a pass for a movie ticket that starts at 10.00 A.M.. That pass will be displayed on the home screen when the even draws near the user to access it directly. If a membership pass with some discount for Store X has been added, it would be displayed whenever the user walks in to Store X.

Passes are also beneficial to pass providers. For one, a pass can be used as a means of notification whenever there is some change regarding the information. Examples are a movie is canceled or boarding pass is changed, or the providers wants to give an extra discount for pass holders. All of this is possible with the use of passes.

Today, we’re going to see how to build an iOS passbook backend that handles pass generation and push notifications. I am going to use Ruby and Sinatra for it. Let’s get started.

Continue reading %What’s in Your Wallet? Handling iOS Passbook with Ruby%

Source: SitePoint