Google is building support for digital COVID vaccine cards into Android

Google will allow Android users to store a digital vaccination card (which it calls a COVID Card) on their phones through Android's built-in pass system. It will be available in the US initially and will require support from healthcare providers, local governments or other organizations that are authorized to distribute COVID vaccinations. This feature will allow you to store COVID test results.According to a Google support page, your COVID Card, which will contain information about when and what vaccines you have received, can be used for vaccinations. You can save the card from your healthcare provider's website or app, as well as any texts or emails you receive.Google suggests that you add a shortcut for the card to your home screen. It will also offer the option to save your card to your device. Google claims that your card will not be stored in the cloud or used for advertising purposes. However, it does state that it may collect certain information such as how often you used your card and which days. You don't need to download the Google Pay app to save or access cards.It is great to see Google making it easier to save your vaccination status digitally from your phone. However, whether you are actually able use the feature will depend on your healthcare provider and government. While some states have their own digital vaccination cards, such as California and New York, Google's version could make it easier for others.