Apple announced that the first US states will be able to use iOS 15's new ability for drivers licenses and state IDs to be stored in the Wallet app. Arizona and Georgia will be the first to support iOS 15. Connecticut, Iowa and Kentucky, Maryland and Oklahoma will follow. The exact date of the new feature's adoption by these states is unknown. However, Apple has confirmed that it will open selected airport checkpoints and security lanes for Apples mobile IDs when states make them available.
Apples Wallet app allows you to add a state ID, drivers license or passport to your account. This works in the same way as adding a credit card. After scanning your ID or license with your iPhone's camera, you will be asked to take a selfie for verification purposes. Apple claims that users will be asked to perform facial and head movements as part of the setup process.
Apple also emphasized the privacy protections in place for drivers licenses/state IDs. Apple and issuing states don't know where or when users presented their IDs. Biometric authentication is required to share data. Digital IDs are shared digitally via encrypted communication between the device's identity reader and the device. Users don't need to show or unlock their devices.
Apple seems to be trying to address concerns about mobile IDs and their potential impact on interactions with law enforcement officers. To share a mobile identification, you don't need to unlock your phone. It seems a stretch to think that the TSA will allow you to breeze through security without even being shown your phone screen.
Apple claims that its mobile ID implementation supports the ISO 18013-5 mobile drivers license (mobile ID) standard, which Apple actively participated in developing. This standard sets clear guidelines for the industry regarding protecting privacy of consumers when they present an ID or drivers licence through a mobile device.
Apple clearly wants to dispel any doubts about the new feature. Proponents of digital identifications claim that they are safer and more secure than traditional documents. The ACLU and Electronic Frontier Foundation caution that if digital IDs replace all physical documents or if physical-only document owners are left behind, it could have serious implications for equity and fairness.
The new functionality will be available in iOS 15 with the fall software update. However, states will decide if and when they join Apple's Wallet-based state IDs or drivers licenses.
