UIDAI To Discontinue Old Aadhaar App Soon, Here’s What The New App Offers

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) will soon discontinue the long-standing mAadhaar application. In its place, the government has launched a new Aadhaar app with advanced security tools, faster processing, and more control for users over their personal information.   

UIDAI shared the update on its official handle on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), urging all citizens to transition to the new app which boasts of enhanced privacy controls and verification options. It said: “mAadhaar will discontinue soon. Download the new Aadhaar App and experience faster access, smarter features and enjoy services at your fingertips. It is designed to make your Aadhaar experience simpler and more convenient than ever! Download Aadhaar App now.”

As the Aadhaar number is widely used for personal information verification, thus, keeping this number and the linked information safe is vital. The mAadhaar app verification often involved displaying full personal details. The display of full information was a point of concern for users about their personal data exposure. To address this, the new app has been launched with improved security features. Although the new app was launched on January 28, 2026, the old app has remained in use. However, UIDAI’s latest announcement said that the old app will be discontinued soon.

What’s New In The New Aadhaar App?

QR Code Preference: On the new app, users don’t need to show their entire Aadhaar profile. Instead, they can simply generate and scan a QR code at service counters, government offices, hotels, hospitals, etc., and share only what needs to be shared. So, under the preferred use of QR, only necessary information will be shared, and the rest of the user’s data will remain under wraps. This will prevent unnecessary circulation of one’s personal information and identity checks.

Advanced Security Measures: Beyond QR functionality, the new app introduces face authentication support. While the traditional one-time password (OTP) method remains available, face scan-based authentication offers an additional layer of security. 

Further, the app will also offer users the option of locking or unlocking their Aadhaar within the app. It will enable users to have direct biometric control. They can use their fingerprint, face, and iris authentication, or lock them within the app interface. In short, users can shut down their biometric access whenever they want and open it whenever they want.

How to Transition to the New Aadhaar App?

• Users simply need to download the app from the Play Store or App Store.

• The next step is to select the preferred language.

• Link the mobile number registered with the Aadhaar number.

• Verify it with the OTP, and if required, through face authentication.

• Once the details are verified, set a PIN or enable biometrics to unlock and lock the app.

In a separate development, UIDAI has extended the free online document update deadline from June 2026 to June 14, 2027.  Citizens can now update their address or identity proofs on the official portal for free till this date at no extra cost.

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