New Aadhaar app replaces mAadhaar with advanced verification features

The newly launched Aadhaar app offers QR-based identity sharing, face authentication, offline verification, and enhanced privacy controls as UIDAI prepares to retire the older mAadhaar application in the coming months.

The Unique Identification Authority of India has announced plans to discontinue its mAadhaar application and has started encouraging users to move to a newly launched Aadhaar app equipped with upgraded security and digital verification features.

The new platform has been designed to provide a more secure and streamlined identity verification experience while improving privacy protections for Aadhaar holders. According to UIDAI, the updated app includes features such as QR code-based Aadhaar sharing, face authentication support, offline verification tools, and biometric lock and unlock controls.

Officials said the migration process will not happen automatically. Users will have to manually set up their Aadhaar profiles after downloading the new application from official Android and iOS app stores.

UIDAI has also shared official download links through its website and social media platforms to guide users during the transition process.

After installing the application, users must verify their Aadhaar-linked mobile number through a one-time password before gaining access to the app’s services.

Users required to add Aadhaar profiles manually

Once logged in, users will need to create a security PIN or activate fingerprint or facial authentication features available on their smartphones.

The next step involves manually adding Aadhaar profiles by entering Aadhaar details and completing another OTP-based verification process. UIDAI said households using the same registered mobile number will also be able to add multiple Aadhaar profiles within a single app, making it easier for families to manage Aadhaar-related services together.

The authority said the new app has been developed with a stronger focus on digital privacy and secure authentication practices.

New features focus on privacy and secure verification

One of the major changes in the new Aadhaar app is the introduction of QR-based identity sharing, allowing users to verify identity digitally instead of providing photocopies of Aadhaar cards in many situations.

The application also supports offline verification services, enabling users to authenticate identity even without internet access in certain scenarios. Additional features include authentication history tracking and direct biometric lock or unlock controls through smartphones.

UIDAI believes the updated platform will help simplify digital identity verification while improving user control over personal information.

The move comes as government agencies and digital platforms increasingly focus on secure authentication methods and paperless identity verification systems.

With the gradual retirement of the mAadhaar app, UIDAI is expected to continue encouraging users to adopt the newer platform over the coming months.