‘Privacy shouldn’t be a luxury’: Google adds ZKPs to Wallet for age checks

Google is bringing zero-knowledge proofs to Google Wallet, allowing users to verify their age on websites without revealing personal details like birthdates. 

The privacy-enhancing feature marks a major step in making cryptographic identity tools more accessible—and more invisible—for everyday users.

“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,” said Rob Viglione, co-founder of Horizen Labs, in a note to crypto.news. “The next frontier for our industry is building compliant privacy solutions that offer greater protection without burdening regulators.”

Age thresholds for online purchases

Google said ZKPs will power a new form of private age verification through its Digital Credential API. 

The implementation will allow users to prove they meet age thresholds for services like Bumble and online alcohol purchases, without disclosing anything beyond that fact.

“We’re developing a system that not only verifies age, but does it in a way that protects your privacy,” Google announced in its blog post. “There is no way to link the age back to your identity.”

Viglione called this shift long overdue. “Privacy shouldn’t be a luxury or an afterthought—it should be a default,” he said. “It’s exciting to see leading companies recognize that.”

As part of the update, Google also plans to open source its ZKP technology, aiming to help other wallets and services adopt privacy-preserving features. The new functionality is rolling out alongside an expansion of digital IDs in more U.S. states, the U.K., and 50 additional countries.