TL;DR
- Google will incorporate zero-knowledge proofs in its Wallet to validate data such as age without revealing additional personal information.
- The rollout will begin in the United Kingdom with digital IDs and will expand to new U.S. states and 50 more countries.
- The company will open-source its zero-knowledge technology so other digital services can integrate it into private verification processes.
Google confirmed the integration of zero-knowledge proofs in its Wallet app, a development that will extend this cryptographic technology beyond the blockchain ecosystem and bring it closer to everyday use. This tool will allow the verification of data such as age without revealing additional personal information, improving privacy in both digital and in-person services.
The implementation will first apply in the United Kingdom, where users will be able to create digital IDs linked to their passports. These credentials will be used on platforms such as Rail Delivery Group, which will accept them to validate age requirements for purchasing Railcards. Additionally, Google is holding talks to have these IDs recognized in other regulated settings, such as alcohol purchases.
Different Applications in Different States
Meanwhile, in the United States, the expansion will continue moving forward. New states will incorporate digital IDs into Google Wallet. Arkansas, Montana, Puerto Rico, and West Virginia will allow official documents to be stored in the app. Arizona, Georgia, Maryland, and New Mexico will permit their use in Department of Motor Vehicles procedures.
It was also confirmed that, with the approaching deadline for mandatory REAL ID usage, the tech giant will support digital passport-based credentials for domestic flights at authorized airports.
The use of zero-knowledge proofs as a fast and private verification method is a disruptive technology. Google explained that it will implement this technology to validate age on applications, websites, and services using its digital credentials API. The company also announced agreements with platforms such as Bumble to integrate these mechanisms into their user verification processes.
Google Will Open-Source Its Solution
Additionally, the company announced it will open-source its zero-knowledge solution so other developers and services can adopt it. This will allow digital wallets and online services to integrate this type of verification into their systems and platforms.
Finally, Google confirmed that Wallet will reach 50 more countries, enabling users to manage IDs and digital passes from the app and on the web, even in regions where contactless payment is not yet available
