Google has opened the function of storing digital documents in wallets in more states in United States

In June of this year, Google announced the capability for users in Maryland to digitally store their identification in the Google Wallet App. Now, this service has been expanded to include users in Arizona, Colorado, and Georgia, allowing them to digitally store their identification and driver’s licenses in their mobile wallet, accessible anytime through their phones.

Prior to this, Apple had already proclaimed last year the introduction of a similar feature in several states, including Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Hawaii, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Mississippi, Ohio, Oklahoma, Utah, and even Puerto Rico. Users could digitally store their identification and driver’s licenses within the iPhone’s Wallet App or directly on the Apple Watch’s Wallet App.

This feature primarily allows individuals to upload their personal IDs and driver’s licenses by taking photos, which are then submitted alongside personal data for governmental verification. Once authenticated, these digital documents can be stored on mobile or watch devices. These digital versions carry the same legitimacy as their physical counterparts and can even expedite processes like airport security checks or roadside inspections using NFC technology.

In light of Google’s recent announcement, there’s an expansion of the digital ID functionality across more states within the US. Furthermore, plans are underway to integrate with a plethora of everyday applications, such as streamlining online car rentals. Service providers would merely need to access the user’s real name and verify their legitimate driving credentials.

Both Google and Apple’s digital ID services operate under encryption. Apart from the user, no one—including Google or Apple—can access this data. Accessing such information requires user authentication via passwords or similar measures, and users can customize what details are displayed when presenting their digital ID.

To avail of this digital ID functionality in Google’s designated regions, phones must run on Android 8 or later versions. For Apple’s service, users must operate an iPhone 12 or a newer model and have upgraded to iOS 15.4 or later. In case of device misplacement, both Google and Apple offer remote options to eliminate the digital ID or revoke related verification data through the supervisory entities in states that support this feature.

Beyond the expanded access to digital identification, Google’s latest update also permits users to capture or screenshot various event barcodes and QR codes for redemption, storing them in the Google Wallet App. This facilitates easier storage and usage of various cards, such as library rental cards or gym memberships, directly from one’s phone.