- Apple has introduced a digital ID feature as part of its Wallet app
- This tool allows you to provide passport information at US airports.
- It can only be used for domestic flights, not for international flights.
Apple just launched Digital ID, which the company describes as “a new way for users to create an ID in Apple Wallet using their US passport information and present it with the security and privacy of an iPhone or Apple Watch.”
But how exactly will this new feature work in the real world? Where can it be used and where is it not accepted? We’ve dug into the details to find out everything you need to know.
First, the digital ID is stored in Apple’s Wallet app, meaning you can access it with a quick double-click of the side button on your iPhone. We’ll explain how to create a digital ID shortly, but the process is relatively simple.
One of the main purposes of the digital ID is to allow you to verify your identity at a US airport. Apple says the beta is rolling out to more than 250 US airports and will allow you to quickly prove your identity without having to get your passport.
At some point there will also be something you can use for online age and ID verification, although it’s not available yet.
Please note that the digital ID is only valid for domestic flights within the US, not international flights. And while it’s a digital ID method that can be used at TSA checkpoints in airports, Apple says it’s not intended to replace your passport. “It cannot be used in lieu of a US passport for international travel and border crossings,” Apple says. Therefore, make sure you always have your passport with you if you plan to cross the border.
While this is limited to air travel for now, Apple says there will be “more use cases for accepting digital IDs in the future.” Apple’s Wallet app can already store digital copies of your driver’s license and ID, and Digital ID’s passport features collect these items on your iPhone.
If you’re concerned about privacy and security, Apple insists that your digital ID is encrypted. Your pass information is stored on your device instead of in the cloud, and Apple “can’t see when and where users present their ID or what information has been sent.” Digital ID can be used without having to unlock your iPhone and allows you to review any information presented to TSA agents before proceeding. Everything is also protected by Face ID or Touch ID.
Create and use a digital ID
To get started and add your digital ID to your iPhone, open the Wallet app and tap the “+” button at the top of the screen. Select “Driver’s license” or “ID card”, then select “Digital ID” and follow the on-screen instructions.
You will then need to use your iPhone’s camera to scan the photo side of your passport and the chip on the back. Then take a selfie to check it out. Once you’re done, you’ll be asked to “perform a series of facial and head movements,” similar to those required when setting up Face ID on your iPhone. Once you complete this step, your digital ID will be added to your wallet.
When you want to use it, just double-click the side button on your iPhone to open the Wallet app, select your digital ID, show it to the TSA agent or ID reader, then use Face ID or Touch ID to confirm.
Apple adds: “In the future, users will be able to present their Digital ID to other select businesses and organizations to verify their identity and age in person, in apps and online,” although this is not currently available.
