Google Wallet is rolling out the ability to add a digital passport ID for more Android users. The good news is that the beta stage has ended, and the feature is now widely rolling out with version 24.47.35 of Google Play services on Android 9+, according to 9to5Google. Google said last week that they would provide access to all users in the US in the coming weeks.
This will allow users to store their U.S. passports as a digital ID in the app. This means travelers can use it at TSA checkpoints for domestic flights, a new convenient way to ID. However, over two dozen TSA checkpoints currently support the digital passport, including major airports like Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), according to a report from CNET.
Google Wallet offers a new way to store passport IDs
Google Wallet’s new feature lets you create an “ID pass” with your U.S. passport. To do this you’ll follow a 3-step process. Scan your passport info using the camera, scan the chip on the back cover using NFC, and take a short video selfie for verification.
Note that you can use the ID pass at TSA checkpoints for domestic travel. You can scan a QR code or tap your phone near an NFC reader to verify. But Google says this digital ID does not replace a physical ID and is not for international travel.
Why is Google adding digital passports to Wallet?
People are looking to digitize everything, including IDs. Google wants to make travel easier by adding this digital ID feature. According to 9to5Google, the feature was tested in October before it went live. Google thinks adding passports to Wallet will save time and reduce stress at the airport.
This aligns with the trend of digitization. Google already allows you to store state-issued digital IDs in Wallet and adding passports is the next step in their digital ID expansion.
What does the digital passport ID offer?
The new feature offers more security for your info. Google says the ID pass is encrypted and requires authentication (fingerprint or PIN) to access or share. You also have control over what’s shared, you can review the info being asked before approving any verification.
As for the limitations, it’s only accepted at certain TSA checkpoints for now. Google is working with partners to expand it in the future, maybe even for car rentals, identity verification, and account recovery.
Adding passport IDs to Google Wallet is a big step towards making ID more convenient and secure. But for now, still, carry your physical passport.
