Google Wallet is approaching the future by introducing digital state-issued identity cards to additional populations across the United States. The tech giant has recently said that their residents would now be able to hold digital versions of government-issued ID cards, including driver’s licenses, into Google Wallet from Arkansas, Montana, Puerto Rico, and West Virginia.
It enhances support that has already been in place in states like California, Maryland, Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Georgia. This way a user can show the ID at certain TSA checkpoints, DMV offices, and other locations for the same. Note that the digital ID should be a Real ID to allow use at airports. If it’s not, users can upload a passport instead.
How to add your license to google wallet
Putting your ID in Google Wallet is a straightforward process. Open the app and select “Add to Wallet” first. Choose “ID Card” from the offered options. Have Google ask you to take clear front and back images of your physical ID, followed by a short video of yourself for verification.
Google does say that the digital ID does not at this stage replace the physical one. It’s still a good idea to carry the physical one around, because many venues may not yet accept the digital form.
Many more applications soon
There is an end to using a digital ID just for airport security or the DMV. According to Google, the implementation will spread far beyond this. Users will eventually use their Wallet IDs to access healthcare platforms like CVS and MyChart by Epic, or use it for identity verification on services like Uber.
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Private and secure age verification
In addition to digital IDs, Google has rolled out new privacy-powered age verification services. With increasing demand from apps and websites for users to confirm their age, especially in dating sites or adult content sites, Google is now simplifying things but protecting user identity.
Google Wallet will use its Zero Knowledge Proof (ZKP) system to prove a person is of age without revealing any other personal information. So apps like Bumble will be able to use Wallet to confirm someone’s age minus their full birthdate or any other specific private information.
Why this is so important
For users who want confidentiality on the internet, this becomes a historical change. Indeed, it becomes a modern case because, traditionally, age checks require full ID upload, and such practices create chances of data leaks or misuse. With ZKP, Google tries to conduct verification deep and fast but, at the same time, tries to keep things private.
Digital ID has made the journey from age verification for online activity to being placed in Google Wallet for boarding an airplane, becoming a reality for many Americans. With new states being included each day, plus secure technology like ZKP being introduced, the days of carrying a heavy wallet may soon be over.
