Apple Delays Digital ID Card Release to 2022

Apple Postpones Digital ID Feature for Apple Wallet

The rollout of a forthcoming feature enabling users to digitally store identification documents within the Apple Wallet application has been postponed by Apple. An update to the official iOS 15 website, initially noted by MacRumors, indicates the functionality is now slated for release in early 2022.

Previously, the company had anticipated launching this capability in late 2021. This change represents a shift in the timeline for a highly anticipated addition to the Apple ecosystem.

Initial Announcement and Planned Support

The feature was initially unveiled during the WWDC 2021 event. Apple described the tool as a means to incorporate driver’s licenses and state ID cards into Apple Wallet, mirroring the process for adding credit or debit cards.

Initial implementation will focus on select Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints within certain US airports. This phased approach will allow for testing and refinement of the system.

State Participation and Expansion Plans

In September, Apple identified eight states that would be among the first to support the feature upon its initial release. These include Arizona and Georgia, with Connecticut, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Oklahoma, and Utah slated to follow shortly after.

Apple also indicated that retailers and various venues would integrate support for the digital ID feature at a later stage, expanding its usability beyond airport security.

Current Status and Future Outlook

Beyond the revised timeframe of early 2022, Apple has not provided a definitive release date for this functionality. It is confirmed that the feature will not be included in the iOS 15.2 update.

Currently undergoing beta testing, the iOS 15.2 update does not contain the necessary components to support the storage of digital IDs within Apple Wallet.

Note: This report was originally published by Engadget.