Will we soon be able to travel without a physical passport?

Google recently announced that it is testing a new digital identification feature with US passports. With this feature, passengers can save their passport on their phone and use it easily in their travels. Although there is still a need to carry a physical passport, it seems that traveling without a physical passport is not too far off.

What’s in your wallet?

Google Wallet is like a physical wallet that lets you store credit cards, airline tickets, and even loyalty cards. Also, in some US states, you can store your driver’s license or state ID in it and use it in some domestic airports.

This means you can present your digital ID at airport security checkpoints like Los Angeles and San Francisco in California or Dallas-Fort Worth in Texas. Although you still need to carry physical ID, you can simply show the QR code for fast access and pass easily.

How to make a digital passport?

To create a digital passport, just upload your passport photo and scan its chip. Google will then ask you to record a selfie video to verify your identity. After a few minutes, your digital passport will be ready to use; Of course, you still need to take your physical passport with you. This technology helps reduce the chance of losing or losing your passport.

_{Photo source: The Tico Times website Photographer: Unknown}

Google’s future collaborations

Google is trying to work with various entities so that you can use the digital ID to rent a car and even recover your accounts. Google Wallet is now globalizing its services by adding features such as public transport tickets in Hamburg, Germany.

Security concerns

With the digitization of sensitive information, there are always concerns about security. Google has announced that the IDs are encrypted and you must authenticate with a PIN or fingerprint to share or view them. You have complete control over the information shared and can review the requested information before using the digital ID.

_{Cover photo source: fodors website Photographer: Unknown}