Apple is on the verge of introducing a significant enhancement to its Wallet app: the ability for U.S. passport holders to store digital versions of their passports directly on their iPhones. This development was highlighted by Jennifer Bailey, Apple’s Vice President of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet, during her keynote at the Money20/20 USA conference in Las Vegas on October 26, 2025. Bailey emphasized that this feature is coming soon, underscoring Apple’s commitment to expanding the functionalities of its digital wallet platform.
Background and Development Timeline
The journey toward integrating digital passports into Apple Wallet has been a meticulous process. Initially announced in June 2025, the feature was slated for release with iOS 26. However, unforeseen delays pushed its availability to a later date. In September 2025, Apple updated its iOS 26 features page, indicating that the Digital ID feature for U.S. passports would be introduced in a subsequent software update. The updated footnote read, Digital ID will be coming later this year with US passports only, providing a clearer timeline for users eagerly anticipating this functionality.
Functionality and Use Cases
Once implemented, the digital passport feature will allow users to add their U.S. passports to the Wallet app, enabling them to present a digital version at Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints in select U.S. airports for identity verification during domestic travel. It’s important to note that, as per Apple’s guidelines, this digital passport is not intended to replace the physical passport for international travel or border crossings. The digital ID can also be utilized for age and identity verification in various scenarios, including apps, online platforms, and in-person transactions.
Security and Compliance
Apple has emphasized that the Digital ID feature is designed with security and privacy at its core. The digital passport will be compliant with the REAL ID Act, ensuring that it meets federal standards for secure identification. Users can expect robust security measures, including biometric authentication, to safeguard their personal information.
Current Status and Future Prospects
As of October 28, 2025, the digital passport feature has not yet been rolled out to the public. The exact release date remains unspecified, but with the end of the year approaching, it’s anticipated that the feature will be available soon. Apple has not clarified whether this functionality will require a specific iOS update, such as iOS 26.1 or iOS 26.2, or if it will be enabled through a server-side update.
Implications for Users
The integration of digital passports into Apple Wallet represents a significant step toward the digitization of personal identification documents. For users, this means added convenience and efficiency, particularly for domestic travelers who can streamline their airport experiences. However, it’s crucial for users to remain aware of the limitations and ensure they carry their physical passports when necessary, especially for international travel.
Conclusion
Apple’s forthcoming addition of U.S. passport support to the Wallet app underscores the company’s ongoing efforts to enhance the utility and functionality of its digital wallet platform. As the feature’s launch approaches, users can look forward to a more integrated and seamless experience in managing their identification documents.
