TWDI: Google Wallet Expands, EU Digital ID Progress and Switzerland Advances National Digital ID
News
Google Adds U.S. Passport To Digital Wallet
Google Wallet announced the beta testing of a new feature that would allow U.S. travelers to create a digital ID directly from their U.S. passport.
Users can derive their Digital ID by scanning the security chip in the back of their passport and take a selfie video to verify their identity. This digital ID can be used at select TSA checkpoints for domestic travel. The wallet will also support more state-issued IDs, with Iowa, New Mexico, and Ohio joining the list of supported states.
For commuters, Google Wallet now supports various transit cards and tickets, including prepaid commuter benefit cards in the U.S. and public transport tickets in several international locations. The app also introduces new features like automatic ticket imports from Gmail and live train status updates.
Read the press release here.
Linux Foundation Launches Decentralized Trust Initiative
The Linux Foundation has formally launched Linux Foundation Decentralized Trust (LF Decentralized Trust), an umbrella organization fostering collaboration across blockchain, ledger, identity, interoperability, and cryptographic technologies. Supported by over 100 founding members, the initiative aims to drive innovation in the transition to a digital-first economy.
LF Decentralized Trust incorporates projects from the Hyperledger ecosystem and the Trust Over IP Foundation. It launches with 17 total projects, including contributions from Hedera and Dfns. The organization will host its first member summit in October to discuss the expanded technology and application reach of this new umbrella organization.
Read the press release here.
EU's Digital ID Working Group Holds First Meeting
The European Digital Identity Cooperation Group’s first meeting took place on Tuesday 17 September. This advisory body, established by the European Commission, aims to support the implementation of the European Digital Identity (EUDI) Regulation and facilitate cross-border cooperation on digital identity wallets, electronic identification schemes, and trust services.
The group's inaugural meeting focused on governance of the EUDI Wallet ecosystem and national implementation updates. The EUDI Regulation, which entered into force on May 20, requires Member States to offer at least one EU Digital Identity Wallet to all citizens and residents by 2026, designed to be voluntary and free for individuals.
Read more about this development here.
Switzerland Advances National Digital ID Project
Switzerland has taken another step towards implementing a national digital ID. The country's Council of States has approved the regulatory framework for the project, paving the way for further legislative steps. The E-ID Act, which promises a government-controlled system closer to self-sovereign identity, is now set to return to the National Council for final adjustments.
The Swiss government aims to introduce the e-ID by 2026, with a budget of 100 million francs allocated for its development. The system is designed to give users more control over their data, addressing previous concerns about private company involvement in managing citizen data.
Read more about this development here.
Asia United Bank Pioneers eVerify Integration in Philippines
Asia United Bank (AUB) has become the first bank in the Philippines to fully integrate the Philippine Statistics Authority's (PSA) eVerify system into its branch banking services. This integration allows customers registered with the national ID system to open bank accounts using only facial recognition, without the need for physical identification cards or forms.
The eVerify system offers advanced identity verification tools, including facial recognition technology and real-time data verification. AUB plans to extend this service from its e-wallet to branch banking operations, aiming to enhance customer convenience and promote financial inclusion in the country.
Read more about this development here.
Upcoming Events
EU Digital Identity Wallets Forum
Where? Spielfeld Digital Hub, Berlin, Germany
When? 9 October 2024
The EU Digital Identity Wallets Forum brings together Europe's leading innovators, policymakers, and industry experts to discuss the latest developments in digital identity wallets. This event allows attendees to participate in agenda creation and debates, fostering open discussions on critical areas of identity and security.
The forum features keynote speakers from organizations such as EBSI, Signicat, and Tietoevry, as well as panel discussions on topics like credential powerhouses, privacy vs. usability, and real-world use cases.
You can register for the event here.
eID Wallet Seminar
Where? Brussels, Belgium
When? 10 October 2024
GlobalPlatform presents the second edition of its eID Wallet Seminar, focusing on the latest developments in the European Digital Identity Wallet (EUDI) scheme. The seminar will explore new technologies supporting EUDI Wallet schemes and discuss the future certification of wallets.
You can register for the event here.
That's all for this week. We will be back in two weeks with more updates.
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