New Aadhaar app launched with face authentication and biometric lock; More useful features added

To make the app more secure, features like face authentication and biometric lock have been added.

New Delhi: The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has launched a new mobile app for Aadhaar. It now allows you to store up to 5 Aadhaar profiles on a single phone. It also allows you to share only essential Aadhaar information.

You can share Aadhaar details in the same way you scan and make payments using UPI. To make the app more secure, features like face authentication and biometric lock have been added.

The new app does not replace the old mAadhaar app, but rather works in conjunction with it. This means you’ll need to use the old app for some tasks, and the new one for others.

Features of the new Aadhaar app

Carry Aadhaar on your phone: Your e-Aadhaar will always be with you, eliminating the need for a paper copy.

Face scan sharing: You simply need to scan your face to share your ID; it’s as secure as a PIN or OTP.

Secure login: The app will open with biometric authentication.

Multi-language support: Available in multiple languages, including Hindi and English.

Offline use: You can access your Aadhaar even when you don’t have internet.

Why the need for a new Aadhaar app?

The old mAadhaar and new Aadhaar apps aim to use Aadhaar digitally, but their focus is different.

For PDF downloads or PVC cards, still use mAadhaar.

For generating a virtual ID or for certain updates, the UIDAI portal or mAadhaar is better.

The new app is privacy-first, where selective disclosure shares only essential information.

Benefits of the new app

Hotel check-in, SIM activation, or bank KYC will be faster.

Family management will be easier, with everyone’s details on one phone.

Selective sharing will prevent personal data from being exposed.