Google Wallet Expands Digital ID Support to 13 US States

Google Wallet's digital ID feature is expanding its reach in the US, allowing users to add their state-issued IDs and passports to the app. Currently, 13 states are supported: Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Georgia, Iowa, Maryland, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, Puerto Rico, and West Virginia is expected to join soon.

To use this feature, users must have an Android device running version 9 or higher. They can add their ID by taking a photo of the front and back of their physical card, as well as recording a short video for verification. Once approved, the digital ID will appear in the Google Wallet app alongside other payment methods.

The primary use case for this feature is at TSA checkpoints in US airports, where users can tap their phone to share their information with airport staff. Some apps and websites are also beginning to accept digital IDs for identity and age verification.

Google has announced plans to expand the feature's capabilities, including using digital IDs to recover Amazon accounts and access online health services. The company is also working on implementing Zero-Knowledge Proof technology to ensure user privacy.