Apple Wallet is evolving once again — and this time, it might just replace your need to carry a physical passport. During the Money20/20 USA conference held in Las Vegas from October 26–29, Apple’s Vice President of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet, Jennifer Bailey, reaffirmed the company’s vision to bring digital ID support to iPhone and Apple Watch users “very soon.”
In a short clip shared by Money20/20’s official Instagram account, Bailey explained that Apple is expanding its Wallet app capabilities beyond just car keys, hotel keys, and student ID cards. She also confirmed that digital passports — based on government-issued identification — are actively in development and will become part of the Apple ecosystem in the near future.
Apple’s Vision for a Secure Digital Identity
Apple first introduced the idea of a digital ID feature in Apple Wallet back in June, alongside iOS 26. The company described it as a secure and private way for users to store and present ID information directly from their iPhone or Apple Watch.
According to Apple, users will be able to create and add a Digital ID using their U.S. passport, simplifying how identification works for domestic use. While this feature won’t completely replace a physical passport, it’s expected to make travel within the United States more seamless, especially at airport checkpoints and domestic security screenings.
Digital ID: A Glimpse Into the Future
As digital IDs gain traction, many experts see this as a natural step toward a future where physical ID cards become obsolete. Apple has already rolled out driver’s license support in several U.S. states, further proving that its Apple Wallet update is more than just an upgrade — it’s a move toward a fully digital identity system.
With Apple Wallet now capable of storing credit cards, bank cards, loyalty cards, and licenses, the addition of digital passports could turn it into a truly universal identification tool.
Convenience vs. Privacy Concerns
While the idea of storing all your important documents on your phone or watch is undeniably convenient, it also raises important questions. Users have expressed concerns about privacy, data security, surveillance, and identity theft.
However, Apple emphasizes that its digital ID feature will remain optional, not mandatory. Users who prefer traditional physical IDs can continue using them without any issue. As long as the digital passport remains a user-controlled, opt-in experience, many will likely welcome this innovation for the convenience it offers.
Final Thoughts
The upcoming Apple Wallet digital ID represents a bold step toward the future of identification. It promises to make travel and daily life more streamlined while maintaining Apple’s focus on security and user privacy.
Whether you’re ready to embrace it or prefer sticking to your physical passport, one thing is clear — Apple’s digital ID feature could soon redefine how we carry and present our identity in the modern world.
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