ID Austria has been given new functions

The Austrian government has significantly enhanced its digital identity platform, known as ID Austria, introducing new features aimed at simplifying administrative procedures for citizens. Starting today, users can now use their ID Austria app to act on behalf of others digitally, a feature particularly beneficial for families, businesses, and professional representatives. This includes tasks such as picking up medications for relatives who might have difficulty accessing digital services themselves. The update also makes the digital ID platform eAusweise more accessible directly from the app's home screen. Additionally, a chatbot named Ida, powered by artificial intelligence, will be introduced by the end of July 2026. This AI assistant is designed to support users in navigating bureaucratic processes and will be available both within the ID Austria app and on official websites such as oesterreich.gv.at.

Alexander Pröll, the state secretary responsible for digitalization, highlighted these updates during a press conference, emphasizing that they aim to streamline administrative processes for various groups, including families, caregivers, companies, and professional representatives. For instance, the mobile power of attorney feature allows individuals to represent others in digital services, which could be especially useful for elderly family members who may struggle with technology. However, this functionality requires both the person granting the power of attorney and the representative to be registered on the ID Austria platform.

The integration of the eAusweise link into the ID Austria app does not replace the existing separate application but rather enhances accessibility. Pröll emphasized that there would be no proliferation of citizen service apps, indicating a long-term goal of consolidating multiple applications into one unified platform. This approach aims to reduce complexity and improve user experience while maintaining the current structure of digital services.

The introduction of the AI-powered chatbot Ida marks a significant step forward in integrating artificial intelligence into public administration. According to Pröll, Austria is positioning itself as the first European Union member state to embed AI directly into a national digital identity platform. The chatbot will provide round-the-clock assistance, offering step-by-step guidance for tasks such as extending a passport or creating checklists for address changes after moving. It will operate on servers managed by the Austrian Federal Computing Center (BRZ), ensuring data remains within the country and preventing international data transfers.

Ida is driven by the Mistral language model developed by a French company. The model used is an open-weight variant, which means no licensing fees are incurred. Costs are limited to operational expenses related to maintaining and developing the BRZ infrastructure. Personal dialog data will not be stored, and tracking or profiling of users will not occur. The content used by the chatbot is based solely on quality-assured information, aiming to build trust among users despite potential skepticism about AI integration in public services.

Another notable enhancement involves addressing a longstanding issue regarding representation in the digital space. Previously, users faced limitations when trying to assist older family members with bureaucratic tasks. With the new version of the app, users can officially act on behalf of others in digital services, provided both parties have a registered ID Austria account. This change enables younger family members to access electronic prescriptions, submit bills to health insurance providers, or retrieve benefit information for elderly relatives. This service operates in close coordination with social security systems and plans to expand to additional administrative tasks over time.

To ensure widespread adoption of these new features, the Ministry of Digitalization has announced a nationwide service tour scheduled for July and August 2026. Mobile service buses will travel across Austria, providing direct support and information sessions. Furthermore, the network of issuing locations has been expanded significantly to facilitate easier access to digital IDs. These efforts reflect a broader initiative to increase the number of digital identities issued, with the goal of reaching nine million by the end of 2029. Currently, six million Austrians already utilize the digital ID, showing a steady upward trend since its inception two years ago.