New GOV.UK wallet will digitalise important identity documents
The government is launching a mobile app and wallet with official documents, including driving licences, as part of a significant digital overhaul.
The new Gov.UK wallet is set to launch on iOS and Android later this year.
Government officials say it will modernise access to official documents and simplify tasks that have previously required long phone calls and wading through a patchwork of websites.
The new initiative will make use of artificial intelligence, too.
The tools—named “Humphrey” after the character from the TV sitcom Yes Minister—will summarise large blocks of text and information so it can be used more readily by the public and the civil service.
The move comes a week after Keir Starmer launched an AI Opportunities Action Plan to much fanfare.
The government hopes cutting-edge technology will drive cost savings of £45bn.
The new wallet will be similar to other digital wallets on smartphones.
It will allow users to quickly access important documents such as veteran cards and driving licences, which will be incorporated at launch.
There are plans to make digital versions of other documents and government services before 2028.
Science and technology secretary Peter Kyle says the Gov.UK wallet will eventually allow people to access all the letters and identity documents they receive from the government virtually.
He added: “Along with CDs, the Walkman and flip phones, the overflowing drawer rammed with letters from the government and hours spent on hold to get a basic appointment will soon be consigned to history.”