Apple
Apple users now have the option to add their COVID-19 vaccine card to their iPhone and Apple Watch to quickly show proof of receiving the shot. That’s a timely feature for the ongoing pandemic, especially since you may be asked to show proof that you’re fully vaccinated before you can enter restaurants, shows and more.
In October, Apple started letting users store verifiable health records in the Health app and the feature was included in the beta of iOS 15.1 but not to all iPhone owners. But now, the ability to store your COVID-19 vaccination status means you can leave your printed card at home. The new feature is a part of Apple’s latest iOS 15 update, which also includes SharePlay in FaceTime and ProRes video for iPhone 13 Pro and Pro Max.
But the new feature won’t work if your vaccine provider didn’t give you a QR code or a downloadable file of your vaccine record. We’ll tell you everything you need to know about the new Apple Wallet feature and more. Before you try to add your card, make sure your phone is updated to the latest software update, iOS 15.1. Plus, here’s how to add your vaccine card to your Apple Watch. And some states have COVID-19 vaccine apps, too. We’ve recently updated this story.
See also: COVID-19 vaccine card: Here’s what to do ASAP if you lost or damaged it
Add your vaccine card using a QR code
If your vaccine provider gave you a QR code when you got your shot, you can scan it using your iPhone’s camera. Once your phone recognizes the code, a Health app notification will appear. You’ll have the option to add it to your Apple Wallet and your Health app for easy access.
Upload a file from your vaccine provider
If you received a link to download your COVID-19 vaccine record, you’ll be able to tap the link on your iPhone to save the information. The link should give you the option to add your card to Apple Wallet and the Health app.
Add your existing immunization record to Apple Wallet
If you connected your provider in the Health app to access your medical records you may see your COVID-19 immunization record in the app. You’ll see a notification under Vaccination Record in the app. Tap Add to Wallet and you’re done.
What to do if you only have a printed card
For now, Apple only accepts verifiable records, which means you’ll have to reach out to your provider to ask for a QR code or downloadable file to use the Apple Wallet feature. If not, there are other ways to store your vaccine status on your phone. Some states have COVID-19 vaccine apps for residents but if not, a clear picture works just fine, too.
Other upcoming updates to Wallet in iOS 15 include support for digital versions of government-issued IDs, including driver’s licenses. One rumor suggests that Apple will verify IDs like those using facial recognition, similar to an approach already used by some banking institutions to authenticate transactions on the iPhone.
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The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.