Is this the end of the wallet? Apple files patent for technology that allows user to verify their identity without a passport, driver’s license or ID card

• Apple published a new patent July 2 with technology for a digital identification
• The firm would add a system that holds the user’s personal details
• The user would input the information and it would be verified by a database 

First it stored a credit card, then car keys and now the iPhone could replace a physical passport or driver’s license.

Apple filed a new patent that describes using the smartphone as a form of digital identifier that allows users to setup a verification for the documentation.

Users upload their information into the system, which then verifies the claim against other databases with access to personal records.

The patent also touches on the event of losing a device, which it notes owners of the device can have their information wiped to avoid identify theft.

Apple has been phasing out the physical wallet since 2014 when it first introduced Apple Pay, which allows users to store credit cards on devices.

And last month, the tech giant announced iOS 14 would allow users to store a physical car key in the system.

Now, the firm is looking to take the place of passports, driver’s licenses, library cards, ski passes and more.

The patent, titled ‘Providing Verified Claims of User Identity,’ details the methods of a digital identifier, as first reported on by AppleInsider.

‘A device implementing a system for using a verified claim of identity includes at least one processor configured to receive a verified claim including information to identify a user of a device,’ reads the document published July 2.

The claim consists of the user’s information that they add to the system, such as name, address and email, which is sent out to be compared to record databases.

The device, which would be an iPhone, could then transmit the digital identification to another system, such as a passport or driver’s license scanner. 

On June 22, Apple unveiled its iOS 14 during its first digital Worldwide Developers Conference that included a range of cutting edge features.

Along with new widgets and an App library, the tech giant has added a wireless way to unlock, lock and startup your car with an iPhone or Apple Watch.

Called CarKey, the technology works with near field communication (NFC) and will be supported by the new 2021 BMW 5 series that is set to hit the market next month.

Emily Schubert, Senior Manager of car experience engineering for apple, said: ‘Digital keys have security benefits. If your keys go missing you can turn off your keys remotely.’

‘They are even easier to share than a physical key. Copies do not involve trips to the dealership and you can share them no matter where you are with iMesage.

‘With each key you share, you can set options like a restricted driver profile.

The feature will also allow car owners share keys with other iOS users via iMessage by creating them a driving profile, allowing owners to place restrict how long family or friends have access to the keys.

Article Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-8495633/Apple-files-patent-technology-allows-users-verify-identity-without-passport.html