The latest version of the Aadhaar App was recently launched by the Unique Identification Authority of India [“UIDAI”] on January 28, 2026. This is meant to replace the legacy mAadhaar platform by making Aadhaar less of a digital card storage system and more of a dynamic privacy-first identity management platform. The relocation is in accordance with the Digital Personal Data Protection [“DPDP”] Act, 2023 and the Rules thereunder [“DPDP Rules”], which is dedicated to data minimisation and user-centred consent.
UIDAI has described the application as privacy-first and has stipulated that it is intended to reduce dependence on physical Aadhaar cards and informal digital copies. More broadly, the app seems to be an effort to update how Aadhaar is used across the nation in different sectors. It seeks to simplify verification processes while also giving individuals greater control over how their Aadhaar information is shared.
KEY FEATURES
1. “One Family – One App”:
This is the new feature in which a single app can manage up to five Aadhar profiles. Earlier mAadhaar app can only manage one Aadhaar profile on single number. This feature usually helpful for parents and guardians to manage their children profile on a single app.
2. Content-Based Selective Data Sharing:
Aadhar users can now share selective data from their Aadhaar data like name, age or address for hotel check-in, entry in cinema halls or identification verification and masking their 12-digit Aadhaar number. This feature can be used by generating a one-time secure QR Code or a password – protected Share ID file for selective data sharing. This feature promotes free consent for users to share the data which is relevant, not every data from their Aadhaar card.
3. Mobile & Address Can Be Updated Through App:
The new app has introduced a feature that allows users to update their mobile number and address through the app, by paying a nominal fee of Rs. 75 and providing face authentication. This feature helped the users by eliminating the need to go physically to any Seva Kendra.
4. Face-Based Authentication:
This app uses Face–based Authentication for login and verification. Earlier, login and verification were done via OTPs, which can be risky given the prevalence of SIM–swapping fraud. This feature reduces the reliance on OTPs.
5. QR-based Contact Card and Offline Sharing:
This feature allows users to share contact details through a QR-based contact card, and to share their data for identification even without internet, by creating QR Code which can be scanned to verify the Aadhar user. This feature is especially helpful in areas with connectivity and network issues.
6. Biometric Locking and View History:
Users can now easily lock their biometrics through the app and can also view their history of updates and other details, and Authentication records. This view history features align with Section 32 of the Aadhar Act
ALIGMENT WITH THE DATA PRIVACY AND PROTECTION FRAMEWORK
The New Aadhaar App is designed around the principle of Data Minimisation. By allowing users to share digitally signed "credentials" rather than the raw Aadhaar number, the UIDAI is attempting to curb the over-collection of personal data by private entities.
According to the Aadhaar Act, 2016 and UIDAI’s sharing of Information Regulations, 2016, the authentication as well as demographic information of the user must be shared only with the explicit consent for a specified purpose. The feature of selective sharing in new app follows the statutory requirement by enforcing the purpose limitation and consent controls. Accordingly, the app aligns with the Digital Personal Data Protection Act by placing "Consent Control" at the resident's fingertips. Every time a QR code is scanned, the app prompts the user to agree to the specific data being shared.
However, privacy advocates remain cautious. Critics argue that while the app improves "front-end" privacy [what a hotel sees], it does not address "back-end" concerns regarding the central database's security or the potential for state surveillance. Furthermore, the mandatory nature of Face Authentication for certain updates raises questions about the storage and usage of facial templates within the broader digital ecosystem.
LOOKING FORWARD
A fresh take on the Aadhaar access has arrived through the new app. By reducing unnecessary data sharing and giving users more control, it addresses several long-standing concerns linked to Aadhaar usage. Therefore, it acts as a practical tool that can optimise identity verification while also complying with current privacy requirements.
The success of the app will depend on two factors: the stability of its technical infrastructure and the willingness of private businesses to stop demanding physical photocopies in favour of the app’s digital handshake.
At the same time, this app introduces new legal and practical questions. Issues such as offline verification, device-level security, and accountability will need closer attention as adoption increases. Over time, clearer regulatory guidance and more consistent standards for entities that rely on the app may be required to ensure its privacy-focused features are applied responsibly.
