New Delhi: The government has announced that the existing mAadhaar app will soon be discontinued as the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) rolls out a new, upgraded Aadhaar application with enhanced security, QR-based verification and improved digital identity controls.

The move marks a major shift in India’s digital identity ecosystem, focusing on safer authentication, selective data sharing and stronger user privacy protections.

The UIDAI confirmed the transition through an official post on X, stating, “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.”

The new Aadhaar app is not a simple redesign but a complete upgrade in how identity verification works in daily use. Unlike the older system, which often displayed full Aadhaar details during authentication, the new platform enables selective sharing of data based on requirement.

QR-based verification and stronger biometric security introduced

One of the key features of the new Aadhaar app is secure QR-based identity sharing, designed to make verification faster at hotels, hospitals, government offices and service counters. Instead of revealing full personal details, users will be able to share only the required information through a QR code system.

The authentication process has also been strengthened. While earlier Aadhaar verification largely relied on OTP-based SMS authentication, the new system introduces multiple layers including OTP, face authentication and QR verification depending on the service being accessed.

The app also allows users greater control over biometric data, including fingerprint, iris and facial recognition settings. Users can lock or manage these biometric features directly through the app, aiming to reduce the risk of unauthorised access, especially on shared devices.

UIDAI said the updated system is designed to improve digital safety and reduce identity misuse in an increasingly mobile-first environment.

How to set up the new Aadhaar app

To begin using the new Aadhaar application, users must download the official “Aadhaar” app from verified app stores such as Google Play Store. After selecting a preferred language, users need to enter their Aadhaar-linked mobile number and verify it using a one-time password (OTP).

Some users may also be required to complete face authentication during the onboarding process. After verification, they can set a PIN or enable biometric login before adding their Aadhaar number and completing final OTP authentication.

The multi-step setup process is designed to ensure identity verification at multiple levels rather than relying on a single login method.

The transition comes alongside UIDAI’s extension of free Aadhaar document update services. As per an official memorandum, users can continue updating identity and address documents free of cost on the myAadhaar portal until June 14, 2027. Earlier, this facility was scheduled to end on June 15, 2026.