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On September 12, 2024 U.S. time (September 13 Japan time), Google announced that U.S. passports can be added to Google Wallet.

In recent years, digitalization has advanced in every aspect of daily life, and digital ID1 has attracted particular attention. Since last year, Google has begun rolling out a feature that allows digital IDs issued by certain states to be stored in Google Wallet, and it is now preparing to take this further.

A beta test introducing a new type of digital ID to Google Wallet will begin soon. This new feature will allow more people to create and store digital IDs for use in more places. Most notably, users will now be able to create a digital ID using a U.S. passport.

This digital ID pass will be usable at select TSA (Transportation Security Administration) checkpoints, saving time and effort at airports when traveling domestically.

The process of creating a digital ID pass is very simple:

  1. Select the “Create an ID pass with your U.S. passport” prompt in the Google Wallet app
  2. Follow the instructions to scan the security chip on the back of the passport
  3. Record a selfie video to verify your identity
  4. Receive a notification within minutes that the ID pass is ready
Adding a passport to Google Wallet (Source) Google

Currently, this ID pass is accepted only at select TSA checkpoints, but Google is working with partners to make digital IDs usable in more situations in the future, including account recovery, identity verification, and even car rentals.

However, because this technology is still at an early stage, digital IDs in Google Wallet are not currently a replacement for physical IDs. Travelers must continue to carry physical identification.

On the security front, Google Wallet securely stores digital IDs using Android’s advanced security, which is designed to protect personal information under a “private by design” principle. ID passes are stored in encrypted form, and using them requires authentication by fingerprint, PIN, or passcode. Users also retain control over their information because they can review what will be shared before verifying their identity.

In addition, Android users in California can already store state-issued IDs2 and driver’s licenses in the Google Wallet app, and similar services are scheduled to roll out in Iowa, New Mexico, and Ohio within the next few months.

Colorado has also begun an initiative to introduce a new reader in the MyColorado app, enabling businesses in the state to accept digital IDs safely and easily.

In this way, Google continues to expand the convenience and scope of digital IDs, seeking to make our daily lives smarter and more efficient. The future of digital ID is likely to continue attracting attention.

(References)

Footnotes

  1. Digital Identity Document. A digitized form of an identity document
  2. Identity Document

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