Digital identity: “d-you” app for digital ID presented

Anyone who wants to use their smartphone as an ID card from next year will need an app called “d-you”. Federal Digital Minister Karsten Wildberger (CDU) presented the name and design of the application in Berlin. The app is designed in green and blue, with a black, red and gold stripe on the side. The “d” stands for digital and for Germany, the “you” puts the user at the center.

The presentation in Berlin was the next step on the way to implementing the so-called EUDI wallet - an EU-wide project according to which every member state must provide an application for digital ID cards on their smartphones. In Germany this is scheduled for January 2, 2027.

ID card twin on mobile phone

To put it simply, citizens can use it to download a twin ID card onto their cell phone and gradually other forms of identity such as a driver's license. The plastic cards can then stay at home in the future. Above all, it should be easier to identify yourself online, for example to open a bank account or prove your age when making purchases.

The wallet is voluntary. “It’s not about control, it’s about living safely in the digital world,” said Wildberger.

The ministry said: “As of January 2, 2027, various applications will be available that make it possible to prove your age, conclude legally secure contracts or open a bank account.” Accordingly, the app can initially be used by around 40 providers, such as the post office, some banks, electricity and telephone providers, municipalities, universities and federal states.