Google has announced an expansion of its digital ID features, bringing support for Aadhaar-based credentials to users in India. The feature is being rolled out through Google Wallet and aims to make identity verification more convenient while maintaining a strong focus on privacy and security.
With this update, users in India will be able to store their Aadhaar as a verifiable digital credential directly on their device. This is being done in partnership with UIDAI, which manages Aadhaar infrastructure in the country. Instead of relying on physical documents or scanned copies, users can now use a secure digital version of their ID when required.
The concept of a digital ID is not new, but its usefulness depends on how secure and widely accepted it is. Google is trying to address both aspects. The Aadhaar credential stored in Google Wallet is not just a static copy of the document. It is designed to be verifiable, which means services can confirm its authenticity without needing access to the full document.
Also read: How to Change Mobile Number in Aadhaar Card?
Google is using a feature called selective disclosure. It allows users to share only the information that is required for a specific situation. For example, if a service needs to confirm age, it does not need access to your full Aadhaar details. Only the necessary data is shared. This reduces unnecessary exposure of personal information and gives users more control over what they share.
Google has also started working with a few partners in India to bring real-world use cases for this feature. Platforms like PVR INOX will allow users to verify age for movie bookings, while BharatMatrimony plans to use verified profiles to improve trust on its platform. Services like Atlys can use the credential to simplify visa application forms, and platforms such as Mygate and Snabbit are expected to use it for identity verification in residential and service-based scenarios.
Read: How to Download e-Aadhar Card, Check Status or Update Details
At the same time, Google is expanding similar digital ID features to other regions. In Singapore, Taiwan, and Brazil, users can now create a digital ID pass based on their passport information and store it in Google Wallet. This ID can be used for both online and in-person verification where supported.
The introduction of Aadhaar-based digital IDs in Google Wallet will reduce dependence on physical documents. It simplifies everyday verification tasks. However, its success will depend on how widely it is accepted by platforms and how comfortable users feel storing sensitive identity data on their devices.
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