Austin Peay to launch mobile-first student ID system in Fall 2024

By: Ethan Steinquest August 19, 2024

Starting this fall, APSU students will receive a mobile ID as their primary campus identification, offering easy access to university buildings and services. | Photo by Robyn White

CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. - Austin Peay State University is putting convenience at students’ fingertips with the introduction of the Govs Mobile ID, a digital solution that will replace physical ID cards starting in the Fall 2024 semester.

All incoming students will receive a mobile ID as their primary campus identification, giving them access to academic buildings, residence halls and student services. Digital IDs will be distributed through Transact eAccounts (available on the App Store and Google Play), and physical ID cards are still available for students without smartphones or compatible devices.

“The mobile ID is something our students have wanted for a while, and we’ve worked hard to bring the safest, most secure and convenient level of accessibility to our campus community,” Govs ID Card Supervisor Natalie Ross Baggett said. “We think students and employees will appreciate this quicker and safer way to use the Govs ID Card on their phones.”

In addition to its benefits for students, the Govs Mobile ID is also part of Austin Peay’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

“Mobile credentials reduce the impact of plastic badges, printers, ink, storage and handling on our environment,” said Morgan University Center Senior Director Andy Kean. “Printing physical cards and supporting card printing software and machines will eventually become a thing of the past.”

“Mobile credentials reduce the impact of plastic badges, printers, ink, storage and handling on our environment,” said Andy Kean, senior director of the Morgan University Center. “Printing physical cards and supporting card printing software and machines will eventually become a thing of the past.”

The Govs Mobile ID works at academic buildings, residence halls, and campus services like the Food Hall and Woodward Library. | Photo by Robyn White

Austin Peay’s transition to mobile IDs has been in the works for several years and aligns with “mobile-first” systems in place at other leading universities.

“As new technology was needed, readers and devices were selected that would support the mobile ID,” Baggett said, adding that the project was approved in Fall 2022. “We’ve been laying the groundwork for this transition for some time to ensure a smooth implementation.”

The university soft-launched Govs Mobile ID in January, and the response has been positive.

“[The soft launch has] given us time to identify any issues and work them out,” Baggett said. Most people love the convenience, and the biggest concern we’ve heard is fear of people not being able to use the card if their battery dies. But with an iPhone or Apple device, there’s a five-hour battery reserve that allows owners to use their mobile IDs after their phones die.”

Mobile IDs will also support Govs Bucks, which allows students to deposit money into an online debit account for use at campus venues. Android users can link funds through Google Wallet or Samsung Wallet, and iPhone users can link funds through Apple Wallet.

“Overall, the Govs Mobile ID is an exciting development for Austin Peay and its students,” Baggett said. “Students can have everything they need right at their fingertips, making campus life more convenient, efficient and enjoyable.”

For more information, call the Govs ID Card Office at 931-221-6633, email govs-idcard@apsu.edu or visit Morgan University Center Room 207.