Apple Wallet is getting verifiable COVID-19 vaccination cards – TechCrunch

Jon Fingas is a contributing writer at Engadget.More posts by this contributor

Theres a real chance youll need proof of a COVID-19 vaccination to enter certain venues, and Apple is hoping it can save you the hassle of digging up an email or carrying a physical card in your pocket. The company is bringing verifiable COVID-19 vaccination cards to Wallet as part of a future iPhone software update. The feature will take advantage of the international SMART Health Cards standard (already in use in several states) to produce proof of vaccination, sign it with a private key and create a public key to verify your info.

The just-released iOS 15 already lets you store verifiable vaccination and test results in the Health app using the same standard. Youll receive your records through QR codes, downloadable files or healthcare providers who use Health Records on iPhone.

Apple is promising strict privacy for all your data. The company wont have access to your imported or shared records, and all info must be encrypted and securely stored when transferred elsewhere. The tech giant also cant see your vaccination card or how youve used it. You can share information with approved third-party apps, but only on a one-time basis.

Apple didnt say when it might release the card update. This wont thrill you if youre anxious about the very concept of sharing your vaccination status with a concert venue or restaurant. However, it should at least streamline the process important when youre already running late for a show.

Editors note: This article originally appeared on Engadget.

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Apple Wallet is getting verifiable COVID-19 vaccination cards - TechCrunch

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