In a significant push towards digital convenience and enhanced privacy, the Indian government has launched a new Aadhaar app in beta version, allowing users to verify and share their Aadhaar details digitally. Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, unveiled the application during the 'Aadhaar Samvaad' event held in New Delhi on April 8, 2025.
Describing the app as a "smart leap" in digital innovation, Vaishnaw emphasized that it aims to make Aadhaar verification quicker, easier, and much more secure. "Aadhaar verification is now as simple as making a UPI payment," he stated in a post on X (formerly Twitter). With the new app, users can enjoy complete control over their personal information, sharing only what is necessary and always with their consent.
The app integrates advanced features such as Face ID authentication and QR code scanning, which promise to streamline the verification process significantly. This means that individuals will no longer need to carry physical Aadhaar cards or photocopies while traveling, checking into hotels, or shopping. Instead, they can simply scan a QR code to verify their identity.
"This app puts an end to handing over photocopies of Aadhaar at random places," Vaishnaw noted, highlighting the app's commitment to privacy and security. The app is designed to ensure that data sharing occurs only with the user's consent, thus eliminating concerns over misuse or leakage of Aadhaar data.
The launch of the Aadhaar app is part of a broader initiative by the government to enhance service delivery through the use of Aadhaar, which has become a cornerstone of various government services in India. The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has developed the app, which is currently in the beta testing phase and will soon be available to the general public.
During the 'Aadhaar Samvaad' event, which brought together nearly 750 senior policymakers, experts, and technocrats, discussions focused on the adoption of new technologies and processes in Aadhaar enrollment and authentication. The event also showcased demos of new products, including the upcoming mobile app, which aims to give users more control over how much information they share while availing services.
As per the UIDAI, the new Aadhaar app will empower users by allowing them to share only the necessary data while accessing services of their choice. This feature is particularly important as it addresses privacy concerns that have emerged in the context of Aadhaar-based authentication.
One of the standout innovations in the app is the integration of Aadhaar Face Authentication, which has seen rapid adoption across various sectors, clocking over 150 million transactions per month. This technology is expected to significantly enhance the security of Aadhaar verification processes.
To download the new Aadhaar app, users can visit the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store and search for "mAadhaar." After downloading, they can register by entering their 12-digit Aadhaar number or 28-digit EID number and following the prompts to generate an OTP for verification.
Vaishnaw reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring that Aadhaar remains a secure and efficient tool for identity verification. The app's features are designed to prevent misuse and protect against forgery or data leaks, making it a robust solution for users concerned about their privacy.
Furthermore, the government has made it clear that Aadhaar can only be used on a voluntary basis for providing any subsidy, benefit, or service, as stipulated in the Aadhaar Act of 2016. This position was reiterated in a recent submission by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) to the Madras High Court.
As the beta testing phase progresses, feedback from users and stakeholders will be crucial in refining the app before its full-scale rollout. UIDAI is optimistic that the outcomes from this initiative will lead to actionable insights that will further enhance Aadhaar usage and authentication services.
In conclusion, the launch of the new Aadhaar app marks a pivotal moment in India's digital landscape, promising to simplify the process of identity verification while prioritizing user privacy. With features that empower users to control their personal information, the app is set to revolutionize how Aadhaar is utilized in everyday transactions.
