
Apple is reinventing its Wallet to serve as a digital passport-like application, although the capability for international travel without a physical passport isn’t yet available. On Wednesday, Apple announced Digital ID, enabling users to securely and privately display their ID within Apple Wallet. This feature is currently in a limited beta phase and is only accessible in the U.S. for domestic travel, being introduced at TSA checkpoints across over 250 airports nationwide.
To set up a Digital ID, users must scan their U.S. passport. Open Wallet on your iPhone, tap the Add + button, choose Driver’s License or ID Cards, then select Digital ID and follow the prompts. This process includes scanning your passport with your iPhone, reading the embedded chip, and occasionally making facial and head movements during the setup.
Alternatively, instead of scanning your passport, you can scan your Digital ID at designated TSA checkpoint locations. When showing a Digital ID, double-click the side button on the iPhone to open Wallet, select your Digital ID, hold your iPhone close to an identity reader, and use Face ID or Touch ID for authentication. This function also works with Wallet on the Apple Watch. At this moment, Digital ID isn’t permitted for international travel.
Digital ID is in its early stages, but Apple has grand aspirations for its future. Eventually, you may utilize it to verify your age at various venues or for identity confirmation in specific applications. The benefit of utilizing Apple’s Digital ID is that the venue can only confirm limited information, such as your age and photo, without accessing all details on the ID.
This feature expands on Apple’s digital driver’s license and state ID, launched in 2022, which can be integrated into Wallet in 12 U.S. states and Puerto Rico.