Starting Tuesday, over 18,000 Danes will no longer be able to access the national digital ID app MitID on their smartphones due to a new software update that phases out support for older devices.
MitID disables support for outdated phones
As of Tuesday, a new update to the Danish digital identification system MitID will render the app unusable on older smartphones and tablets, affecting thousands of users across Denmark. Devices running Android 9 or earlier—as well as Apple products using an operating system older than iOS 15—will no longer support the MitID app, Denmark’s official digital ID solution.
The change is part of an overall strategy to strengthen security and ensure system compatibility. According to the Danish Agency for Digital Government, this update impacts exactly 18,204 users who have older mobile devices and may not have received the latest operating system updates from manufacturers.
Security and compatibility behind the update
The rationale for this transition revolves primarily around cybersecurity and technical support. Devices that can no longer receive software or security updates are considered much more vulnerable to hacking, phishing attempts, and other cybersecurity threats. The agency stated that it cannot guarantee a sufficient security level on devices lacking manufacturer support, which prompted the need to phase out compatibility with older operating systems.
Beyond security, standardization plays a key role. Maintaining compatibility with multiple outdated versions of an operating system is technologically burdensome and financially costly. Consolidating system requirements helps reduce complexity and ensures a smoother user experience for newer devices.
Challenges for vulnerable populations
While most Danes adapt readily to rapid digital changes, the update presents considerable challenges for groups with limited technological access or skills. Approximately 20% of Danish adults over the age of 65 use older devices that may be affected by this update.
The groups most vulnerable to disruption include the elderly, individuals with reading or writing difficulties, and people who struggle to communicate with government agencies. Many in these demographics lack close support networks or may not find it easy to replace their current device or navigate the process of obtaining alternative login methods.
Moreover, the mandatory nature of public digital services like MitID leaves little flexibility for people facing technological barriers. MitID is required to access Denmark’s health services, digital mailboxes, tax systems, and numerous welfare services, leaving those without access at a serious disadvantage.
Available alternatives and proposed solutions
To support affected users, the Danish authorities are offering alternatives. MitID users can request a free MitID code viewer or code reader, which generates or reads login codes without a smartphone. Additionally, citizens can transfer the app to a newer phone or tablet that meets the current technical requirements.
Authorities have communicated the update to all impacted users via letter, though they initially misinformed some iPhone owners by including iOS 15 users in the affected group. That error was later corrected, clarifying that only versions older than iOS 15 are impacted on Apple devices.
Some experts say these incidents highlight the importance of better support systems during tech transitions. Danish public services are widely digitized, and the expectation is that future systems will continue down the same path. Authorities are therefore urged to build inclusive infrastructures that offer everyone—regardless of income, age, or tech proficiency—an equal opportunity to access digital services.
Looking ahead
The MitID app will continue evolving to keep up with security needs and technological developments. Users will have to maintain phones and tablets with operating systems that can be updated and supported by the manufacturer. Government agencies are aware of potential frustrations caused by these transitions but maintain that the steps are necessary to secure citizens’ data and the national digital infrastructure.
Danish society relies heavily on digital public services, and maintaining user confidence in systems like MitID is crucial. As the country continues its shift toward a fully digital self-service model, future system upgrades will likely bring both enhancements and new challenges for users.
