Clockwise 631: Let Me Take the Shovel Away From You
Nov 12, 2025
Join technology journalist Jason Howell, known for his insights on Android, and Meg Marco, a seasoned writer from WIRED and ProPublica, as they dive into intriguing discussions about mobile IDs and digital privacy. They tackle the hesitance around adopting digital IDs and explore concerns about smart TVs spying on their owners. The conversation takes a nostalgic turn when they reminisce about their favorite pre-smartphone devices, from flip phones to the iconic Razr, showcasing the evolution of tech in a fun and relatable way.
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Digital IDs Can Replace Risky ID Photos
- Meg Marco sees digital IDs as a privacy-forward alternative to photos of physical IDs.
- She expects safer, selective sharing to replace risky picture-taking of IDs.
Live Setup Of A Mobile ID
- Jason Howell was scanning his driver's license into Google Wallet live during the show and found setup very easy.
- He felt hesitant about relying on mobile IDs but planned to test them in everyday use.
Keep Physical IDs Until Adoption Grows
- Keep both digital and physical IDs during adoption so you have a fallback when states lack digital ID support.
- Expect domestic-only passport use first and plan for gradual broader adoption.