Google is making a major leap forward in user privacy by introducing Zero-Knowledge Proofs (ZKPs) to Google Wallet. This new feature allows users to verify their age for online services without revealing sensitive personal information, such as their exact birthdate or ID details. The update marks a significant shift toward integrating advanced cryptographic tools into mainstream digital services.
A New Standard in Privacy for Age Checks
The implementation will rely on Google’s Digital Credential API, which will power private age verification on platforms that require age restrictions such as Bumble, online alcohol vendors, and other age-gated services. Instead of submitting documents or exposing full birthdates, users will simply prove that they meet a required age threshold, and nothing more.
“We’re developing a system that not only verifies age, but does it in a way that protects your privacy,” Google said in its official announcement.
“There is no way to link the age back to your identity.”
This innovation aligns with a broader industry push to protect digital identities without compromising compliance or usability.
Industry Experts Applaud the Move
Rob Viglione, co-founder of Horizen Labs, welcomed the update as a much-needed industry milestone.
“When tech giants like Google start seamlessly integrating Zero-Knowledge Proofs into their apps, it’s a clear signal that privacy-driven innovations are becoming mainstream,” Viglione said.
“Privacy shouldn’t be a luxury or an afterthought it should be a default.”
He also emphasized the importance of building privacy tools that are both user-friendly and regulator-compliant—a balance that ZKPs help achieve.
Open-Sourcing and Global Expansion
As part of its rollout, Google plans to open source its ZKP implementation, allowing other developers, wallets, and digital ID services to adopt the same privacy-preserving mechanisms. The initiative also comes as Google expands digital ID support across more U.S. states, the United Kingdom, and 50 additional countries, accelerating the adoption of decentralized identity infrastructure globally.
By embedding Zero-Knowledge Proofs into one of its most widely used services, Google is not only enhancing privacy it’s paving the way for cryptographic identity solutions to become a default standard in the digital world.
