UIDAI Launches New Aadhaar App: Features, Benefits, and What It Means for Digital Identity in India

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has taken a major leap forward in digital identity management with the launch of its new Aadhaar app in 2025. This redesigned mobile application is set to redefine how Indian residents interact with their Aadhaar identity, offering enhanced security, streamlined verification, and greater control over personal data. With features like QR-based authentication, biometric locks, and the ability to manage multiple family profiles, the new app is poised to become a cornerstone of India’s digital ecosystem.

What Is the New Aadhaar App?

The new Aadhaar app, officially launched by UIDAI in November 2025, is a mobile application available for both Android and iOS platforms. It replaces the older mAadhaar app and introduces a host of new features designed to make Aadhaar more accessible, secure, and user-friendly. The app allows users to store, manage, and share their Aadhaar details digitally, eliminating the need for physical cards and reducing reliance on paper-based verification processes.

According to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), the new app is part of a broader initiative to strengthen India’s digital identity infrastructure and promote a paperless, secure, and efficient verification ecosystem. The app is designed to be intuitive, with a focus on privacy, security, and ease of use.

Key Features of the New Aadhaar App

1. Digital Sharing and Masked Verification

One of the standout features of the new Aadhaar app is the ability to share Aadhaar details digitally using QR codes or verifiable credentials. When sharing information, the app masks sensitive data such as the full 12-digit Aadhaar number, ensuring that only necessary information is disclosed during verification. This approach enhances privacy and reduces the risk of identity theft.

For example, when checking into a hotel or accessing a government service, users can present a QR code generated by the app. The service provider can scan the code to verify the user’s identity without seeing the complete Aadhaar number. This feature is particularly useful in scenarios where physical documents are not required, such as event access, residential society entry, or airport check-ins.

2. Biometric and Face Authentication

The new app introduces advanced biometric locks and face recognition for enhanced security. Users can lock their biometric data within the app, ensuring that it cannot be accessed or used without explicit permission. Once locked, the biometric data remains secure until the user intentionally unlocks it or disables the feature.

Face authentication is another layer of security, allowing users to verify their identity using facial recognition. This feature is especially useful for remote authentication, where physical presence is not possible. The integration of biometric and face authentication makes the app more secure and resistant to misuse.

3. Multiple Profile Management

The app allows users to manage up to five Aadhaar profiles on a single device, provided they are linked to the same registered mobile number. This feature is particularly beneficial for parents who need to manage their children’s Aadhaar profiles or for families who want to keep all their identity documents in one place.

For instance, a parent can add their own Aadhaar details along with those of their spouse and children, making it easier to manage family-related verifications and updates. This multi-profile support streamlines the process of identity management for households and reduces the need for multiple devices or accounts.

4. Instant Mobile Number and Address Updates

The new app simplifies the process of updating mobile numbers and addresses associated with Aadhaar. Users can make these changes directly within the app, eliminating the need to visit Aadhaar centers or submit physical forms. This feature is particularly useful for individuals who frequently change their contact information or need to update their address for official purposes.

For example, if a user moves to a new city or changes their mobile number, they can update their Aadhaar details instantly through the app. This ensures that their Aadhaar information remains current and accurate, reducing the risk of verification issues.

5. Offline Verification and QR-Based Authentication

The app supports offline verification through QR-based authentication, making it possible to verify identity even in areas with limited internet connectivity. This feature is particularly useful for rural areas or remote locations where internet access may be unreliable.

During offline verification, the app generates a QR code that can be scanned by service providers to verify the user’s identity. The QR code contains only the necessary information, ensuring that sensitive data is not exposed. This feature is expected to be widely adopted in sectors such as hospitality, transportation, and event management.

6. Data Protection and User Control

The new Aadhaar app gives users full control over what information they share during verification. Users can choose to disclose complete or selective Aadhaar information, depending on the requirements of the service provider. This level of control enhances privacy and ensures that users are not forced to share more information than necessary.

For example, when applying for a bank account, users can choose to share only their name and address, without revealing their Aadhaar number or other sensitive details. This feature is particularly important in an era where data privacy is a growing concern.

Practical Use Cases of the New Aadhaar App

The new Aadhaar app has a wide range of practical applications across various sectors. Here are some examples of how the app can be used:

  • Hotel Check-Ins: Guests can use the app to check into hotels by presenting a QR code generated by the app. The hotel staff can scan the code to verify the guest’s identity without requiring physical documents.
  • Event Access: Attendees can use the app to gain access to events by presenting a QR code. The event organizers can verify the attendee’s identity and ensure that only authorized individuals are allowed entry.
  • Residential Society Entry: Residents can use the app to enter their residential societies by presenting a QR code. The security staff can scan the code to verify the resident’s identity and grant access.
  • Banking and Financial Services: Customers can use the app to verify their identity when opening bank accounts, applying for loans, or conducting other financial transactions.
  • Government Services: Citizens can use the app to verify their identity when accessing government services such as passport applications, driving license renewals, and admission to educational institutions.

Security and Privacy Considerations

The new Aadhaar app places a strong emphasis on security and privacy. The integration of biometric locks, face authentication, and masked verification ensures that users’ data is protected from unauthorized access and misuse. The app also gives users full control over what information they share, reducing the risk of data breaches and identity theft.

However, it is important for users to remain vigilant and follow best practices for digital security. This includes regularly updating the app, using strong passwords, and enabling biometric locks. Users should also be cautious about sharing their Aadhaar details with untrusted parties and should only use the app for legitimate verification purposes.

How to Download and Use the New Aadhaar App

The new Aadhaar app is available for download on both the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store. Users can search for “Aadhaar” in the respective app stores and download the official app developed by UIDAI. Once installed, users can log in using their Aadhaar number and registered mobile number. The app provides a step-by-step guide for setting up biometric locks, managing profiles, and sharing Aadhaar details.

For detailed instructions on how to download and use the app, users can refer to the official UIDAI website or the app’s help section. The app also includes a comprehensive FAQ section that addresses common questions and concerns.

Impact on India’s Digital Identity Ecosystem

The launch of the new Aadhaar app is a significant milestone in India’s digital identity journey. By making Aadhaar more accessible, secure, and user-friendly, the app is expected to accelerate the adoption of digital identity solutions across the country. The app’s features, such as QR-based authentication, biometric locks, and multi-profile management, are likely to set new standards for digital identity verification in India.

The app is also expected to have a positive impact on sectors such as banking, healthcare, education, and government services. By streamlining verification processes and reducing reliance on physical documents, the app can help improve efficiency, reduce fraud, and enhance user experience.

Conclusion

The new Aadhaar app launched by UIDAI in 2025 represents a major advancement in India’s digital identity ecosystem. With features like QR-based authentication, biometric locks, multi-profile management, and instant updates, the app offers a secure, convenient, and user-friendly way to manage and verify Aadhaar identity. As more users adopt the app, it is likely to become an essential tool for digital identity verification in India, paving the way for a more efficient, secure, and paperless future.

For more information on the new Aadhaar app and its features, visit the official UIDAI website: https://uidai.gov.in/

For a detailed guide on how to download and use the app, refer to the official app store listings: Aadhaar App on Google Play