Bundesdigitalminister Karsten Wildberger (CDU) revealed plans for a nationwide citizen app at a Handelsblatt event in Berlin. The app is intended to become a central portal for state services, allowing users to submit applications, book appointments, and access information online.
Wildberger said the detailed design will be presented from June or July. He explained that the app will work closely with a digital “wallet” that securely stores identity documents, driver’s licences, and age proofs on a smartphone, enabling online identity verification.
Use of both the wallet and the app is voluntary. Wildberger emphasized that citizens should decide for themselves how they use digital services. The overarching aim is to simplify administration, ease the burden on businesses, and give young people safe access to digital offerings.
During the discussion, he also addressed topics such as social media, data protection, and age verification. Regarding a potential ban on social media for minors, he supported age limits, citing the state’s duty of care. He concluded with a status report on the modernization agenda, noting progress in relieving citizens and businesses, and stressing the need to advance Germany’s technological capabilities.