Germany to launch digital ID app for smartphones in 2027
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By Olivia Logan
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Federal Minister for Digital Transformation Karsten Wildberger (CDU) has announced a new app which should make digital identification processes easier for German citizens and residents.
D-you app coming in 2027
From January 2, 2027, citizens and residents in Germany can download the new “d-you” app. In the d-you app (the “d” stands for both “digital” and “Deutschland”), citizens can store a “digital twin” of their ID card (Personalausweis).
The app can also store other German ID cards, such as a driving licence. Although it has not been confirmed, it will likely also support a “digital twin” of German residence permits.
Announcing the launch, Wildberger said the app should make it easier for citizens and residents to confirm their identity when opening a bank account online, signing employment contracts digitally, or making age-restricted online purchases.
“This isn’t about surveillance; it’s about a secure life in a digital world,” Wildberger added. According to ntv, the app will only share relevant information during each verification. For example, if you purchase alcohol online, the app will only share information about your age.
After launch, it will initially only be possible to use the app with 40 providers, including Deutsche Post, several banks, electricity providers, telecom operators, municipalities, universities and federal states.
D-you app is part of EUDI-Wallet rollout
The d-you app rollout is part of a wider EU policy to improve and unify digital ID infrastructure across the bloc. According to the EUDI-Wallet policy, every member state must develop a digital wallet for its citizens, residents and businesses.
“No matter where you are in Europe, your wallet will work the same and accept the same digital documents,” the European Commission’s EUDI website explains.
Of course, while EU citizens and residents can now choose to use the digital wallet, they are not obliged to. You can continue to use physical ID cards as your sole method of identification.
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Editor for Germany at IamExpat Media. Olivia first came to Germany in 2013 to work as an Au Pair. Since studying English Literature and German in Scotland, Freiburg and Berlin she has worked as a features journalist and news editor.Read more