What is the story about?
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has introduced a new Aadhaar mobile application that changes how Aadhaar holders share, verify and update their identity. The app shifts routine Aadhaar services to a consent-based digital platform and reduces dependence on physical documents and enrolment centres.
Selective Aadhaar sharing
The app allows users to share only the specific identity details required for a transaction—such as name, age or proof of presence—instead of the full Aadhaar card. Users generate customised, digitally signed QR codes for each use case. Verifying entities do not store Aadhaar numbers, limiting data exposure.
Consent-led verification
Users control what data is shared, for what purpose and with whom. Each verification request requires explicit user consent, making Aadhaar usage transaction-specific rather than open-ended.
Offline verification support
The app supports Aadhaar verification without an internet connection through QR code scanning. This enables use cases such as hotel check-ins, hospital visitor access and identity checks in low-connectivity areas.
Face and biometric-based checks
The app introduces optional face verification for proof of presence. Users can also lock or unlock their biometrics with a single click, strengthening control over authentication.
Updates through the app
Users can now update their registered mobile number and address directly through the app, eliminating the need to visit Aadhaar enrolment centres for these services. UIDAI has indicated that additional update features will be added later.
Authentication history and contact sharing
The app allows users to view their Aadhaar authentication history. It also includes a QR-based contact card for sharing contact details without disclosing Aadhaar information.
Multiple profile management
A single device can manage up to five Aadhaar profiles, allowing families to handle Aadhaar-related tasks for children or elderly members from one phone.
Selective Aadhaar sharing
The app allows users to share only the specific identity details required for a transaction—such as name, age or proof of presence—instead of the full Aadhaar card. Users generate customised, digitally signed QR codes for each use case. Verifying entities do not store Aadhaar numbers, limiting data exposure.
Consent-led verification
Users control what data is shared, for what purpose and with whom. Each verification request requires explicit user consent, making Aadhaar usage transaction-specific rather than open-ended.
Offline verification support
The app supports Aadhaar verification without an internet connection through QR code scanning. This enables use cases such as hotel check-ins, hospital visitor access and identity checks in low-connectivity areas.
Face and biometric-based checks
The app introduces optional face verification for proof of presence. Users can also lock or unlock their biometrics with a single click, strengthening control over authentication.
Updates through the app
Users can now update their registered mobile number and address directly through the app, eliminating the need to visit Aadhaar enrolment centres for these services. UIDAI has indicated that additional update features will be added later.
Authentication history and contact sharing
The app allows users to view their Aadhaar authentication history. It also includes a QR-based contact card for sharing contact details without disclosing Aadhaar information.
Multiple profile management
A single device can manage up to five Aadhaar profiles, allowing families to handle Aadhaar-related tasks for children or elderly members from one phone.
