Apple is preparing to introduce a new Digital ID feature in its upcoming iOS 26 update that will allow users to store their U.S. passport digitally within Apple Wallet. The rollout is expected in the autumn of 2025, marking the evolution of verifiable and digital credentials we see across a spectrum of digital identity wallets. The feature, for now, will be limited to domestic air travel within the United States.
Meanwhile, the Transportation Security Administration has begun accepting digital forms of identification at select airport checkpoints under the REAL ID compliance programme. Apple is positioning its Wallet app to more directly compete with Google Wallet, which is now supporting digital passports from both the U.S. and U.K.
Users will need to meet specific hardware and software requirements to use the digital passport feature. Most U.S. states will require an iPhone 8 or newer running iOS 16.5 or later.
Whilst international travellers will still need to present a physical passport at border crossings, the new Apple Wallet feature aims to simplify identity verification for domestic flyers and frequent travellers.
Passport support expands Apple’s broader Digital ID initiative, which already includes support for state-issued driver licenses in some regions.
