This isn't the first announced identification support, either. Japanese will also have the option of scanning their NFC-equipped identity cards, while the UK will use it to let EU citizens scan passports whether or not Brexit takes place.

This won't necessarily see widespread use. While the NFC system should be secure, Germany is well-known for being privacy-conscious -- people might not be comfortable with storing their ID cards on their iPhones, even if they're locked down tightly. You'll at least have the option, though, and this should be good news for iPhone owners around the world who'd like to use NFC for more than just shopping.