Google Wallet users in the United States are set to benefit from an upcoming new beta test which will enable them to produce a virtual ID of their US passport.

This feature is welcome especially at this time, as we approach the end of the year, and holiday travel is almost around the corner—making it less cumbersome to deal with identification documents.

Convenience of Digital Passports

It is not known yet when the Google update for airports will be implemented to people, but the new update aims to cut stress when in airports, especially for domestic travelers. This process means that you will always have your identification in the form of a US passport on your smartphone thus no need for the original copy.

Thus, it is not complicated to create a digital copy of your passport and carry it with you wherever you go. Google claims that users will need to find the option that says 'Create an ID pass with your US passport' under its Google Wallet section, as per ZDNet.

From there, the working of the application will prompt you on how to scan the security chip at the back of your passport. In order to confirm your identity you will be required to record a short selfie video.

Security and Control with Google Wallet

After this, Google Wallet will take a few minutes to generate the ID pass and this will be sent to your mobile device notification. This new feature will be integrated with the support of all sundial Android phones and with the help of the platform's advanced security to protect your information.

Google also confirms that every ID card; the new passport included, is encrypted and safe on your phone. To view your digital ID, you will have to prove your identity by using your fingerprint PIN or passcode. Most importantly, your personal information is never disclosed to any third party without your permission, therefore you are fully in charge of your information.

So, for extracting the text when you lose your device or at least, do not have an opportunity to take it in your hands, Google has a backup. That way, users can be provided with total flexibility; Users can check their digital passpor, as well as other ID passes through here.

How to Add Your Passport to Google Wallet

It is fairly simple to add your US passport to Google Wallet though there's usually a verification that must be undertaken. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it, according to Android Authority.

1. On the home page of your phone's Google Wallet, select 'Add to Wallet on the right-hand bottom.
2. Select the ID option.
3. Select Passport (U. S. only) from the list to complete it and provide information on your travel passport. This screen will also provide an idea of what one can do with his or her digital passport.
4. Click on the steps below to capture the face page of your passport.
5. Hold the passport with both hands and flip it around to its different side, then align the security chip to the examiner's direction.
6. You will then have to make a video call that captures your face, the app guiding you by helping you adjust your eyes and then recording you. The video will be uploaded for identification purposes.

Google will look through it and it may take a few minutes as a result of the process they employ. On completion of the verification process, your digital passport will be stored in Google Wallet.

Enhanced Security Features

Google Wallet is very particular about the security of its users especially when it comes to IDs such as passports. Any ID passes are only stored in an encrypted form, and the user has to identify himself with his fingerprint, PIN, or passcode to be able to retrieve or share any IDs. It eliminates the likelihood of your data being exposed to fraudsters while going through the registration process.

An extra protection in Android means that Google Wallet is safe to use in managing your digital passport. If you are a frequent business traveler, this new feature should help ease your trip a notch higher.