Samsung Assists With India's Controversial Digital ID Rollout

In its bid to align with the Indian Government’s push for digitalization, Samsung is stepping up with technology enhancements for its Galaxy smartphone users, which brings with it an array of concerns over privacy and surveillance. This move, reported by The Times of India (TOI), now allows Galaxy phone users in India to access various digital credentials, including their Aadhaar digital ID and PAN cards, through the revised Samsung Wallet.

The Samsung Wallet update purports to eliminate the need for physical documents. Certificates such as driver’s licenses, CoWIN vaccination proof, and more can now be stored directly on Galaxy smartphones. While touted as a convenience, it also makes these devices a treasure trove of personal data and much easier for states to further checkpoint societies. The update also ties Samsung Pay services closely with the Samsung Wallet.

Moreover, the updated wallet attempts to revolutionize transactions by simplifying payment procedures via Samsung Pay. This also implies that a large chunk of users’ financial behavior will be channeled through one platform, raising further privacy issues.