Blaze Media co-founder Glenn Beck is raising serious concerns about Apple's newly introduced digital ID system, warning that the technology could grant the tech giant unprecedented control over Americans' access to essential services and freedoms.
Apple has rolled out its digital ID feature as part of Apple Wallet, allowing users to store identification documents on their devices. But Beck sees a darker purpose behind the seemingly convenient innovation.
"Digital ID is the first thing. Then it includes your medical records. It includes all your health — everything. It will give you access to the hospitals or not access to the hospitals. It will allow you to buy things or not buy things," Beck explained, according to The Blaze.
The conservative media figure continued his warning, stating the system "will allow you to access online or n[ot access online]," suggesting Apple could potentially control users' digital freedoms based on compliance with certain standards or behaviors.
Beck's concerns reflect broader conservative worries about the increasing digitization of personal identification and the power it grants to Big Tech companies. The digital ID system essentially consolidates critical personal information under Apple's control, raising questions about privacy, freedom, and corporate overreach.
As The Blaze highlighted on social media: "Glenn Beck sounds the alarm on Apple's digital ID: 'Control of absolutely everything'"
The timing of these warnings is particularly significant as President Trump continues his efforts to rein in Big Tech's influence over American lives. Conservative critics argue that digital ID systems like Apple's could become tools for social control, potentially restricting access to services based on political beliefs, vaccination status, or other criteria.
Corporate Control Concerns
Beck's characterization of the system as enabling "control of absolutely everything" underscores fears that private corporations are building infrastructure that could be used to monitor and restrict citizens' movements and activities.
The digital ID represents another step toward a cashless, fully-digital society where tech giants hold the keys to Americans' ability to participate in commerce and access essential services.