As the world becomes increasingly digital, the way we travel is also undergoing a significant transformation. This move reflects broader industry trends towards a more streamlined and efficient travel experience. Apple’s latest announcement is a prime example of this shift, as the company is set to introduce a new feature to Apple Wallet that will allow users to create a digital ID using their passport. This development is particularly significant in the context of the Real ID rules, which began enforcement in May, rendering many state IDs insufficient for TSA checkpoints.
The introduction of digital IDs to Apple Wallet is a natural progression of the company’s efforts to expand the app’s capabilities beyond payment and ticket storage. With the support of government IDs in Apple Wallet already rolled out to 12 states and Puerto Rico, the addition of passport-tied Digital IDs will further enhance the app’s functionality. According to Jennifer Bailey, VP of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet, this feature will enable travelers to move through TSA checkpoints more quickly, alongside the existing support for digital boarding passes.
The upcoming launch of passport-associated Digital IDs is a testament to Apple’s commitment to innovation and customer convenience. As Bailey noted, Apple Pay is now live in 89 markets around the world, with over 11,000 banks and networks supporting the service. Additionally, 90% of U.S. retailers support Apple Pay, and the Wallet app has seen significant adoption in other areas, such as transit passes, hotel keys, and car keys. With over 2 million hotel room keys provisioned and 29 car manufacturers supporting Car Key in Wallet, it’s clear that Apple is dedicated to making Wallet a one-stop-shop for all aspects of daily life.
Source: Official Link