Welcome to a significant update on Apple technology! Now, Apple is making it even easier for iPhone users in Japan to handle their identity with the latest iOS 18.4 update, which seamlessly integrates the My Number Card into the Apple Wallet. This is a key step toward personal identification that is more digital and more streamlined than ever before.
Integration of My Number Card with Apple Wallet (Highlight)
Apple’s collaboration with the Digital Agency of Japan has paved the way for the inclusion of My Number Cards in the iPhone’s Wallet app. This feature is anticipated to roll out in the latter half of this spring, aligning with the official release of iOS 18.4
Integration of My Number Card with Apple Wallet (Highlight)
Apple’s collaboration with the Digital Agency of Japan has paved the way for the inclusion of My Number Cards in the iPhone’s Wallet app. This feature is anticipated to roll out in the latter half of this spring, aligning with the official release of iOS 18.4.
Discoveries from the iOS 18.4 Beta:
Recently released to developers, the beta version of iOS 18.4 includes a specific code that supports the My Number Card. This was also confirmed by Aaron, the famous reverse engineer, who also added that Apple is well into implementing this feature.
Capabilities Enabled by This Integration: (Highlight)
With the official release of iOS 18.4, iPhone users will be able to:
Obtain essential documents like resident cards or seal registration certificates directly from convenience stores.
Access administrative services via the Myna Portal.
Undergo identity verification at medical institutions.
Use their iPhone for contactless ID verification, eliminating the need to carry a physical My Number card.
Comments from Key Figures:
As Japan continues to expand the use cases for the My Number Card, Taro Kono, Minister of the Digital Agency, noted, the government is working hard to create a safe and convenient digital society through this widely accepted identification solution. Apple Pay’s vice president Jennifer Bailey, meanwhile, said she was excited to expand on the identification features in Apple Wallet beyond the U.S., with strong security and privacy protections.
Security and Privacy Enhancements:
Apple ensures high levels of privacy and security with this new feature:
Identification data is stored only on the device, with no access by Apple.
The Find My app allows users to lock and remotely erase their iPhones if lost.
Compliance with international standards ISO 18013-5 and ISO 23220, ensuring a secure digital identification process.
Conclusion:
The ability to store My Number Card in Apple Wallet, coming with iOS 18.4, is a futuristic move that will undoubtedly improve residents’ security and convenience in Japan. However, this is more than an update of technology, this is a major leap towards personal identification, a move to a digital-first approach.
