Digital wallets have been used to store credit card information and make payments easier. Apple Wallet and Google Wallet have also been able to hold event tickets and vaccination cards.
A few states have implemented a digital drivers license, which users will be able to use in some circumstances. 9 to 5 Google reports:
Following the initial launch last year, Google Wallet now supports Driver’s Licenses and State IDs in three more states: Arizona, Colorado, and Georgia.
Last December, Maryland was the first state to support digital IDs in Google Wallet on Android.
Digital IDs can make it easier to verify credentials online. They are also helpful to help with forgotten wallets. Android Police continues:
The process of adding a state-issued ID to Google Wallet seems quite straightforward, with an ID card (beta) option showing up in the Add to Wallet menu. You typically still need to present your physical ID to law enforcement officials when asked, so there’s not a ton of practical use yet, but a virtual driver’s license or state ID can facilitate quicker TSA checkpoint experiences. Google emphasizes security with this feature, stating that once an ID is registered, it’s encrypted on the device, ensuring only the user can access, share, and decide what’s visible on it.
For those lucky enough to have access to this beta feature and reside in a supported state, trying out this functionality might offer a glimpse into a future where physical ID cards become obsolete. Beyond just supporting Google Pay and transit passes, Google Wallet is now positioning itself as a more versatile do-everything billfold app with the inclusion of digital IDs.
More states are releasing digital ids, which could eventually cover the whole country.
READ NEXT: Will You Be Messaging with AI Soon?
