One of the biggest considerations surrounding issuance technology today is mobile credentials. Viewed by some as the Holy Grail of issued identification for its flexibility, mobility, and interoperability across physical and logical applications, mobile credentials are already making inroads across numerous verticals.

But rather than acting as a competitive form factor to the traditional, physical ID card, mobile IDs securely provisioned onto mobile devices can most effectively function in harmony with cards as a natural supplement. That’s one of the takeaways from HID Global’s new “Physical and Mobile IDs — Working Together to Protect Your Identity” whitepaper.

Hallmarks of mobile IDs

Serving as a reminder that this technology is still relatively young, the overwhelming explosion of mobile phone use is still growing. A recent survey by the GSMA revealed that over one billion more people will use mobile phones by 2020 compared to 2015.

Despite this mobile paradigm shift, the physical ID isn’t going anywhere just yet. As detailed in the whitepaper, HID stresses that mobile IDs should be viewed as an extension of authentic, physical credentials. Here’s a quick rundown:

The continued demand for physical cards

Physical cards remain an ideal solution because they can be easily customized, adding several in- and on-card security features. Physical ID cards also provide unique feeling of pride. Whether it’s a national ID or a university campus card, many people still recognize inherent value in having a physical item that represents belonging.

Why mobile IDs are the future

Blending cardholders’ physical and online identities is becoming more prevalent, and is enabling mobile applications for more commercial purposes. Retail loyalty card apps, for example, can easily replace a pack of physical store-branded cards. Likewise, gym membership cards and hotel access keys are slowly but surely being replaced by mobile access applications. The transition to mobile ID is already taking shape.

For security and convenience, think co-existence

Physical cards and mobile IDs can work together as part of a total multi-factor authentication solution. Marrying the two credential form factors can expedite issuance, as well. Speeding up the enrollment process dramatically reduces the issuing agency’s overhead and administrative costs, while enabling cardholders to have greater convenience without compromising privacy.

This is just a small snippet of the full, “Physical and Mobile IDs — Working Together to Protect Your Identity” whitepaper. This document represents a great resource for any ID issuer seeking more detail on ways to prepare for, and issue, mobile credentials.