European Digital ID Wallets Likely Boost Google and Apple

European Union officials are drafting standards for digital identity wallets. The proposed wallets would let users store government‑issued IDs on their phones. Google and Apple already operate mobile platforms that could host such wallets. Integration would give the two firms a ready channel for new services. Analysts say the move could expand the tech giants’ reach into identity verification. Consumer‑privacy advocates warn the arrangement may deepen market concentration. Regulators are monitoring the potential impact on competition. The rollout is expected to begin in the next few years.