New Aadhaar App: Enhanced Security, QR Verification And Biometric Controls

The government is preparing to retire the mAadhaar app, and users have been told to switch to the new Aadhaar app. UIDAI says the replacement platform will tighten security, change digital verification on phones, and give people more control over how Aadhaar details are used and shared.

The update marks a shift in how Aadhaar works on smartphones. Earlier, the mAadhaar app often showed complete profile details during checks. The new Aadhaar app limits what is displayed, supports selective sharing of information, and adds extra layers of screening before confirming any identity request.

New Aadhaar app security features and QR-based verification

One of the main changes in the new Aadhaar app is QR-based sharing for in-person verification. People visiting hotels, hospitals, government centres, or service desks can now present a QR code instead of revealing full Aadhaar details. Scanning the code allows staff to see only the details needed for that service.

The new Aadhaar app also reshapes the authentication process. Earlier, most Aadhaar logins or checks relied only on SMS-based OTPs. The latest system can ask for different checks together. Depending on the service, it may use OTPs, QR scans, and face authentication to lower fraud risk and protect digital identity.

New Aadhaar app controls for biometrics and personal data

UIDAI has added more tools inside the new Aadhaar app to manage biometric data. Users can lock or unlock fingerprint, face, and iris-based authentication from within the app itself. This is meant to help users handle access on shared phones or public devices, and reduce chances of unauthorised biometric use.

Officials announced the changeover through Aadhaar’s verified account on X, and urged a shift away from mAadhaar. The post said, "mAadhaar will discontinue soon. Download the new Aadhaar App and experience faster access, smarter features & enjoy services at your fingertips. It is designed to make your Aadhaar experience simpler, and more convenient than ever."

New Aadhaar app setup process and login steps

Registration on the new Aadhaar app involves more steps than mAadhaar but follows a clear order. Users must first download the official “Aadhaar” app from trusted app stores such as the Play Store. After choosing a preferred language, the mobile number linked to Aadhaar needs to be entered and confirmed using an OTP.

Some users may then be asked to complete face authentication on the new Aadhaar app during setup. After that, they can set a PIN or switch on biometric unlock for app access. Finally, users add the Aadhaar number and complete another OTP step. UIDAI says these repeated checks spread identity confirmation over multiple stages.

New Aadhaar app launch and free online update timeline

The move to the new Aadhaar app is happening alongside an extension of free online document updates. An official memorandum states that residents can update and validate identity and address documents without any fee on the myAadhaar portal until 14 June 2027. Earlier, the free window was meant to close on 15 June 2026.

UIDAI’s plan to phase out mAadhaar and promote the new Aadhaar app signals a clear shift towards layered security, QR-based verification, and stronger biometric control. With the free document update window extended, users have added time to align their records while moving to the updated digital system.