Perso auf dem Handy: „d-you“-App für Ausweis auf dem Smartphone

As of next year, using one's smartphone as a form of identification will require a new application called "d-you", according to Germany's Federal Digital Minister Karsten Wildberger. The app features a green-blue color scheme, with a black-red-gold stripe on the side. The "d" stands for digital and for Germany, while "you" emphasizes the user.

Wildberger unveiled the app's name and design in Berlin, signaling the next step towards implementing the EU-wide Digital Identity Wallet project, which requires each member state to provide digital identity applications for smartphones. In Germany, this will be available starting January 2, 2027.

Essentially, citizens will be able to load a person's identity card and other identity documents like a driver's license onto their smartphone. This could eventually replace plastic cards, keeping physical copies at home. The primary goal is to make online identification easier, such as opening a bank account or proving age for purchases. The wallet, or "brieftasche", is optional. Wildberger emphasized, "It's not about control, it's about safe living in the digital world."

According to the ministry, starting January 2, 2027, various applications will be available to verify age, lawfully sign contracts, or open a bank account. Initially, around 40 providers will be able to use the app, including the post office, certain banks, utility companies, municipalities, universities, and German states.