British citizens will soon have the option to store their passport digitally on their phone, along with their driving license, Universal Credit account, marriage certificate, and birth certificate.
These plans were revealed by Peter Kyle, Secretary of State for Science, Innovation, and Technology, as part of a new smartphone app to streamline interactions with government services. This move aims to eliminate the need for physical government letters and long wait times for basic appointments.
Initially, people will be able to access their driver’s licenses and veterans cards with the new digital wallet starting in June. The government’s digital service will later expand to include accounts related to student loans, car tax, benefits, childcare, and local councils.
Mr. Kyle mentioned that his department is collaborating with the Home Office to authorize a digital passport version. While physical copies will still be valid, their use for crossing borders will depend on other countries’ border systems.
An example of a digital driving license page stored in a smartphone wallet in the Gov.uk app, due to be released this summer. Photo: Faculty of Science/PA
Kyle stated: “We are closely monitoring international standards, and as those standards become clearer, governments will naturally want to benefit from them as much as possible.”
The digital wallet, similar to Apple and Google wallets, will be linked to a person’s ID to verify their identity. This will enable instant sharing of necessary certificates and benefit claims with ease. However, there are no immediate plans to use it for proving immigration status.
In case of a lost phone, a recovery system is in place to prevent loss of the digital wallet. Kyle reassured users about data breaches, mentioning that the app’s design complies with existing data laws.
“We are revolutionizing the interaction between citizens and the state,” said Kyle during a launch event in east London, drawing inspiration from Silicon Valley product launches.
He added that individuals under 18, accustomed to smartphones, would view current government and paper-based systems as outdated.
“Moving government services online doesn’t mean leaving behind those without internet access,” he emphasized. “Easier online access allows us to enhance public services and focus human resources where necessary, ensuring better service for all.”
The technology has been developed over the last six months since the Labor party took office and includes modern smartphone security features like facial recognition checks.
Source: www.theguardian.com
