Apple announces the launch of Digital ID- a new way to create and present an ID in Apple Wallet
Yesterday, Apple announced a new way for Apple users to create and present an ID in Apple Wallet called Digital ID. With this feature, users can store and present their identity even if they do not have a real ID.
Digital ID is a new way for users to create an ID in Apple Wallet using information from their US passport, and present it with the security and privacy of iPhone or Apple Watch. Though it is not a replacement for a physical passport, it cannot be used for international travel and border crossing in lieu of a US passport.
How to add a Digital ID to Apple Wallet?
- Open Apple Wallet
- Tap the Add (+) button at the top of the screen in Wallet on their iPhone and then select Driver’s License or ID Cards
- Select Digital ID and follow the onscreen instructions to start the setup and verification process.
Users are then asked to use their iPhone to scan the photo page of their physical passport as part of the process. They will also be asked to use their iPhone to read the chip embedded on the back of their passport to ensure the data’s authenticity. From there, they are asked to take a selfie for verification, and as another security step, they will also be prompted to complete a series of facial and head movements during the setup process. Upon verification, their Digital ID is added to Wallet.
How to use Digital ID in Apple Wallet?
To present a Digital ID in person, double-click the side button or Home button to access Apple Wallet and select Digital ID. Hold your iPhone or Apple Watch near an identity reader, review the specific information being requested, and use Face ID or Touch ID to authenticate.
Apple has revealed that in the future, users will be able to present their Digital ID at additional select businesses and organizations as well.
The company has specified that the data in a Digital ID is encrypted. When a user creates a Digital ID, their passport data is stored on the device, and the company cannot see when and where users present their ID or what data was presented. Biometric authentication ensures that only the owner of the Digital ID can present it.
Users also have the opportunity to review and authorize the information being requested with Face ID or Touch ID before it is shared. Users do not need to unlock, show, or hand over their device to present their ID.
Availability
Digital ID acceptance will roll out first in beta at TSA checkpoints at more than 250 airports in the U.S. for in-person identity verification during domestic travel, with additional Digital ID acceptance use cases to come in the future.
Apart from this, Apple has also revealed that the ability to add a driver’s license or state ID to Apple Wallet is live in 12 states and Puerto Rico.
