Apple Asks US States To Pay For Its Digital ID And SIM Program

JAKARTA - Some time ago Apple launched a service plan to make users in the United States (US) store their digital ID and SIM on their iPhone.

However, Apple made US states pay for the initiative and provided customer support for its plans to turn iPhones into digital identification cards.

According to documents obtained by CNBC International, Apple will maintain strict control over customers' personal data. The company also asked states to maintain the necessary systems for issuing and servicing credentials, hiring project managers, all at the expense of paying taxes.

Currently the states that have participated in the contract include Georgia, Arizona, Oklahoma, and Kentucky. The contract also says that each state must test the service on different types of Apple devices.

Furthermore, states are also responsible for promoting digital ID services to citizens, as well as encouraging adoption among members of the federal and state governments, including local police and the Internal Revenue Service.

State agencies are also required to display the service program in all public communications relating to Digital Identity Credentials, and are subject to Apple's review and approval.

It does not stop there, Apple holds the state accountable for the authenticity of the program's identity verification. However, Apple is not responsible for any discrepancies in its verification system.

“Apple is not responsible for any Verification Results, and the Agency acknowledges that all Verification Results are provided 'As is' and without warranty of any kind, express, implied or otherwise, regarding their accuracy or performance. Monday, November 15th.

Even though it's an Apple-led program, tax-paying citizens have to pay the bill too to launch this single-platform digital ID program in their state, even if they don't own an iPhone.

Apple's plan is enough to raise a number of concerns, especially regarding security. Where users have to transfer their most sensitive documents to their iPhone, essentially establishing their identity on a single device. If applied incorrectly, it can be easily abused.

Just like what Apple is trying to do with its digital ID program Clear, a digital identification app, serves as quick access to the front line of security at airports and sports stadiums, or as an app to store evidence of COVID-19 vaccines.

Clear is used to sell past user data, using that data to promote relevant advertisements to users. However, it's not clear exactly how Apple will use this data, as its digital ID system will soon be making its way to Connecticut, Iowa, Maryland, and Utah, in addition to the four states mentioned above.