DigiD app now also works on computer without smartphone
The new desktop app is intended to make digital government services more accessible to people without a mobile phone.
From Thursday, people in the Netherlands can install the DigiD app directly on a computer. For many users, this removes the need for a smartphone to log in to government services.
The desktop version of the DigiD app is available for computers running Windows 11 and macOS 15 or later. When logging in, users no longer need to scan a QR code or pairing code. The app is linked to the computer on which it was activated and then asks for a personal PIN.
According to the Dutch government, around one million people in the Netherlands do not have a smartphone. Until now, this meant they could not use the DigiD app, although some government services increasingly offer an app as an additional security step. For this group, logging in with a username, password and SMS verification was often the main alternative.
The update was developed by Logius, the government organisation that manages DigiD. According to the cabinet, Logius conducted user research during development among people who cannot use the mobile app or have difficulty operating it. Assistive tools were also considered, such as software that allows a computer to be controlled with the eyes.
The new option does not make DigiD entirely independent of mobile devices. According to DigiD, the identity check in which an identity document is read using an NFC reader can only be added on a mobile device. For some services requiring a higher assurance level, a smartphone or another verification procedure will therefore remain necessary.
The desktop app is also not automatically suitable for all digital government services. Logius states that the new app is intended for logging in at the Medium assurance level. Organisations decide for themselves which level they require; a higher level may be mandatory for sensitive data.
The step forms part of a broader debate about digital accessibility. A digital government can be more efficient, but must not exclude citizens without modern equipment. The desktop app lowers that barrier for some users, while the government must continue to offer alternative routes for people without a suitable computer or with insufficient digital skills.
One story, several perspectives
What is established
- The government has made a DigiD app for Windows and macOS available.
- The desktop app is not a complete replacement for mobile verification for all assurance levels and services.
- The measure is intended to make digital government services more accessible.
Left
Arguments Digital public services must exclude no one. Alongside this app, the government must also guarantee physical and human alternatives for people without a computer, internet access or digital skills.
Values Equal access, public responsibility and protection of vulnerable groups.
Consequences An exclusively digital route can increase inequality; investing in support and counter services prevents this.
Centre
Arguments The desktop app is a practical improvement, as long as assurance levels remain clear and organisations do not phase out all alternatives too quickly.
Values Combining accessibility with security, practicality and reliable public services.
Consequences The measure can lower barriers, but requires continued monitoring of ease of use and security.
Right
Arguments The government must organise digital services efficiently and securely. A computer app can reduce dependence on commercial mobile platforms, but citizens must take responsibility for using it carefully.
Values Personal responsibility, security, efficiency and a limited government.
Consequences Fewer exception routes can save money, but must not result in unworkable access for people who cannot participate digitally.
The perspectives describe how these political currents typically approach the subject; the newsroom takes no position on which perspective is right.
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The article's central point is directly confirmed by Rijksoverheid and Logius. The limitations concerning assurance levels and the ID check were checked with DigiD.
- confirmed The DigiD app has been available for download on Windows and macOS computers since 24 September 2026. — Rijksoverheid and Logius describe the desktop release. source
- confirmed Around one million people in the Netherlands do not have a smartphone. — This figure is mentioned in the Dutch government's news report. source
- confirmed The desktop app works on the computer on which it was activated and uses a personal PIN. — Description of the new functionality by the Dutch government. source
- confirmed The ID check can only be added to the DigiD app on a mobile device. — This is stated in DigiD's current guidance. source
- confirmed The desktop app is intended for the Medium assurance level. — Logius mentions this in the release information. source
Editor's note
It is certain that the desktop app is available for Windows and macOS and can be used without a smartphone for certain assurance levels. The need for a smartphone does not disappear for every government service, because the ID check remains required on a mobile device.Sources
- DigiD voortaan ook beschikbaar zonder smartphone — Rijksoverheid
- DigiD release 6.19 — Logius
- DigiD-app komt ook beschikbaar op Windows en macOS — Tweakers
More on this in Dutch media
- RTL Nieuws — „digid logius”
- FD — „digid logius”
- Trouw — „digid logius”